Loading lesson

Electromagnets, solenoids and practical uses

Magnetism and electromagnetism · Lesson 2 of 4

Lesson 2 of 4

Ask a tutor

Lesson 2 of 4 · Magnetism and electromagnetism

Electromagnets, solenoids and practical uses

3 quick checks≈2% of the testCore

Reading is free. Sign in to tick off lessons, keep your place and track your mastery.

By the end you’ll be able to

describe the magnetic field produced by a current in a straight conductor, including the concentric circular field pattern around the wire
describe and interpret the magnetic field around a coil and a solenoid, including that the field inside a solenoid is similar to that of a bar magnet and is relatively strong and uniform
explain how an electromagnet is formed by passing current through a coil, especially when wound around a soft iron core

0% read

compare the use of soft iron and steel in magnetic devices, including why soft iron is used where temporary magnetism is required

apply knowledge of electromagnets and relays to practical examples such as electric bells, circuit breakers, door locks and lifting magnets

This lesson hasn’t been written yet

GCSE Physics lessons are written from the official syllabus the first time a learner opens them, then saved for everyone. Sign in and this one is written for you in a minute or two. It’s free.

Sign in Create a free account