Required Practical: Electromagnets Flashcards
What is the objective of the required practical activity concerning electromagnets?
The objective is to investigate the factors that determine the strength of an electromagnet, specifically exploring the effects of electric current and the number of turns on the coil.
What materials are required for the electromagnets experiment?
Materials include:
an iron nail
lengths of insulated wire (of different gauges for different investigations)
a variable power supply
an ammeter
paper clips
connecting leads with plugs
a switch
crocodile clips
a stand with a boss and clamp.
How is the effect of electric current on the strength of an electromagnet investigated?
The wire is coiled around the iron nail, and the circuit is connected with a variable power supply. Gradually increasing the voltage, the current needed to support different numbers of paper clips is recorded. A graph of the number of paper clips supported against the current is plotted.
Describe the procedure for investigating the effect of the number of turns on the coil on the strength of an electromagnet.
Different numbers of turns of wire are wound around the iron nail. The current needed to support a set number of paper clips is recorded for each number of turns. A graph of the number of paper clips supported against the number of turns on the coil is plotted.
What safety precautions should be observed during the electromagnets experiment?
Safety precautions include ensuring the coil does not overheat, using safety goggles if iron filings are used, and following proper procedures to prevent accidents.
