English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
Describe how the strength of the magnetic field varies with the size of the current in a wire and the distance from the wire
Explain how to make an electromagnet and how the strength of it can be changed
Explain what a solenoid is and draw the magnetic field around one
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Words and meanings to learn
magnetic field
the region around a magnet or a current-carrying wire where magnetic forces can be detected
current
the flow of electric charge through a conductor, typically measured in amperes (A)
solenoid
a coil of wire with many turns that produces a magnetic field when an electric current flows through it
electromagnet
a magnet created when a current flows through a solenoid, often with a core of magnetic material (like iron) to strengthen the magnetic field
concentric circle
objects or shapes that share the same center or axis; in the context of magnetic fields, concentric circles represent the magnetic field lines around a current-carrying wire
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Making an electromagnet.
Magnetic field around a wire demo.
Large stiff wire, powerpack, clamp stands, card and plotting compasses.
Power packs, wire with stripped ends to make coils, iron cores (nails), paper clips, leads and croc clips (premade coils can help with timings).
Expert film
Mission assignment film
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