Explain the activity to make an electromagnet.
Answers
Engineering Connection
Engineers design electromagnets, which are a basic part of motors. Electromagnetic motors are a big part of everyday life, as well as industries and factories. We may not even realize that we interact with electromagnets on a daily basis as we use a wide variety of motors to make our lives easier. Common devices that use electromagnetic motors are: refrigerators, clothes dryers, washing machines, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners, sewing machines, garbage disposals, doorbells, computers, computer printers, clocks, fans, car starters, windshield wiper motors, electric toothbrushes, electric razors, can openers, speakers, music or tape players, etc.
Pre-Req Knowledge
Some knowledge of magnetic forces (poles, attraction forces). Refer to the Magnetism unit, Lesson 2: Two Sides of One Force, for this information on electromagnets.
Learning Objectives
After this activity, students should be able to:
Relate that electric current creates a magnetic field.
Describe how an electromagnet is made.
Investigate ways to change the strength of an electromagnet.
List several items that engineers have designed using electromagnets.