Electromagnet — Science definition
Defined in 2 courses:
- A magnet produced by electric current, often using a wire coil and an iron core. (Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy)
- A magnet created by running electric current through a coil of wire, often around an iron core, that can be switched on and off. (Physics & Environmental Science)
Where it is taught
- Electric & Magnetic Forces — Forces, Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy, Grade 8
- Magnetism & Electromagnetism — Electricity, Magnetism & Circuits, Physics & Environmental Science, Grade 12
In use
Coil that current-carrying wire into a loop, or many loops, and the magnetic fields reinforce into a strong, controllable magnet — an electromagnet.
Magnetism & Electromagnetism
Questions using electromagnet
Problem 1
An electromagnet is created by:
- rubbing a balloon to charge it
- rubbing a magnet on a piece of iron
- passing an electric current through a coil of wire
- cooling a wire until it is very cold
Answer and explanation
passing an electric current through a coil of wire
A current flowing through a coil produces a magnetic field, forming an electromagnet that can be switched on and off.
Taught alongside
- field
- repel
- controlled variable
- model
- evidence
- system boundary
- assumption
- electric charge
- polarization
- current
- coil
- compass
- magnetic field
- electromagnetic induction