Abstract
A convenient new force method for the measurement of volume magnetic susceptibility is described. It is based on a commercial balance that is used to measure the force between a magnet placed on the pan of the balance and the sample supported just above. Samples of almost arbitrary shape and size can be measured quickly. The sensitivity of the device is sufficient to measure the susceptibility of many common diamagnetic materials, such as water, to a few per cent. A complete theoretical analysis is given along with experimental results. The method is particularly useful for screening materials for use in the construction of precision scientific apparatus.