this exerts a force on magnets and magnetic materials

a wire wound round in loops and looks like a spring

the centre of an electromagnet around which a wire is wound to make a coil

a magnet made using a coil, a core and a power supply

Electromagnets

Science

In the Electromagnetism unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn about the motor effect and electric motors, the generator effect and electric generators, and how loudspeakers and microphones work.

In the Series circuits unit, pupils learnt about static electricity (electric charge), setting up series circuits using circuit diagrams, finding and replacing faulty components, and the rules for electric current and voltage in series circuits.

This unit explores magnetism, including magnetic poles, fields, and Earth’s magnetism, along with the principles of electromagnets and DC motors. It focuses on conducting precise scientific enquiries and identifying variables and emphasises accuracy, repeatability, and reproducibility.

Magnets and electromagnets

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

an electrostatically charged plastic ruler

Which of the following would not cause a compass needle to deflect?

Which of the following is not needed to make a strong electromagnet?

The magnetism has returned to the power pack.

Why do paper clips fall off the electromagnet when the current is turned off?

Increasing the number of turns in the coil.

Which of the following changes will not make an electromagnet stronger?

Increasing the resistance of the wire in the coil.

Which of the following will increase the strength of the magnetic field in a coil of insulated wire?

straight and in the same direction as the wire

What is the shape of the magnetic field lines caused by a straight, current–carrying wire?

Which of the following metals are magnetic?

They point out of both the N–pole and the S–pole.

They point into both the N–pole and the S–pole.

They point out of the N–pole and into the S–pole.

They point out of the S–pole and into the N–pole.

Which statement about the magnetic field lines round a bar magnet is correct?

The S–pole of the magnet is at Earth's North Pole.

The S–pole of the magnet is at Earth's South Pole.

The S–pole of the magnet is at Earth's equator.

The N–pole of the magnet is at Earth's equator.

Earth's magnetic field behaves as if there is a magnet inside the planet. Which of the following statements about this imaginary magnet is correct?

Where is Earth's magnetic field strongest?

Which of the following will not deflect a magnetic compass needle?

Which of the following statements about the poles of magnets is correct?

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Electromagnets

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.