Magnetic Fields & Electromagnetism
Electricity and Magnets: like peas and carrots
Goal
We will explore how moving charges are a source of magnetic fields, and how those fields can be useful, especially when paired with traditional magnets.
Key Terms
- Magnetic field – the area around a magnet containing all of the magnetic lines of force
- Magnetic force – the mechanical force (potential or kinetic) exerted on moving charges by a magnetic field
- Electric current – the flow of electric charge
- Electromagnetism – the study of electric and magnetic interactions or electromagnetic interactions
- Electromagnet – a coil of wire that temporarily becomes a magnet when an electric current flows through the wire
- Induction – production of a moving electrical force by the motion of a conductor through a magnetic field. Induction is good way to heat metal, but it can also be used to transfer current from one coil of wire to another.
- Generator – a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
- Motor – a machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy
- Transformer – a device used to increase or decrease the voltage through electromagnetic induction
The Hand Rule
Electromagnets can be very useful, but to use one effectively, it is helpful to know which end is north and which end is south. You could just use a compass to figure it out, but what if you don't have access to one? Watch the video below to learn how.
Electromagnets Left or Right Hand Rules for Coils Physics Lesson