Despite repeated checks of procedure, calculations, measurements, and set-up, a magnetic trap could not be created.  One possibility is that the magnetic field was not radially symmetric which would cause the magnet to feel a force pushing it out of the region of stability.  This asymmetry was observed in the magnet's preference for one side of the coils. Possible suspects to account for this asymmetry are defective coils (due to construction or short circuits) and an unlevel stack of coils.
            The theory of asymmetry is supported by the greatest discrepancy between this experiment and more successful ones. Because of the relatively large radius of the coils, the ac curvature was a factor of ten less than those of others. This would reduce the ability of the oscillating quadrupole to restore the magnet back to center. If the ac curvature were greater it could dominate any asymmetries pulling the  magnet off center.  A larger ac curvature could be achieved by either increasing the current passing through the coils, decreasing the coil's radii, or adding two more coils in series with the outermost coils while running a larger current through the innermost coil.