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Electromagnet Definition

An electromagnet is made by passing electricity through a wire coil, creating a magnetic field. Electromagnets are magnets that can be turned on and off.

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Electric & Magnetic Fields

LESSON MATERIALSmove

Fun Facts

  • Iron cores make electromagnets stronger than those without cores.
  • Electromagnets can create magnetic fields that attract metal.
  • Increasing coil turns in an electromagnet strengthens its magnetic field.

Why Do We Need To Know About Electromagnet

Learning about electromagnets helps you understand how things like your phone and computer speakers work. These speakers use electromagnets to make sound. Electromagnets are also important in making laser printers work. They use a special drum to pull in toner powder to print on paper.

This shows us how electromagnets are used in many areas, including entertainment and technology. Knowing about electromagnets is useful, especially if you’re interested in engineering, working with sound, or making things print.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you increase the strength of the magnetic force on an object like a paper clip?
Magnetic forces get stronger as the magnet moves closer to the object it is attracting or repelling. If two magnets are made of the same material, then the larger magnet will have a stronger magnetic field. The strength of a magnet also depends on the material from which it is made. For example, neodymium magnets will have a stronger magnetic field than magnets made from Alnico (an alloy of aluminum, nickel, and cobalt).
Why can iron filings be used to visualize a magnetic field?
Each tiny piece of iron becomes magnetized, and its poles align with the lines of the magnetic field. Therefore, the iron filings will line up to show the field lines and can be used to determine the relative strength of the field. Closely packed lines indicate a stronger field; widely spaced lines indicate a weaker field.
How can two balloons repel each other without touching?
Balloons that have been rubbed with the same material will take on the same charge. Charged objects are surrounded by electric fields that can exert a force on other charged objects. Two balloons with the same charge will repel each other.
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