Electromagnetism & Induction

HS-PS2-5: Current and Magnetic Fields

Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that an electric current can produce a magnetic field and that a changing magnetic field can produce an electric current.

Electromagnet Controls

Adjust the battery voltage to push current through the coil. Observe the compass needle.

-12V0V+12V

Compass Field (B):

0.0 mT

Electromagnet

-BATTERY+

NGSS Three-Dimensional Learning

Science & Engineering Practices

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations: Use this sandbox to gather empirical data. In Tab 1, observe how voltage and loop count affect magnetic field strength. In Tab 2, investigate how the speed and direction of a moving magnet induce different currents.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

PS2.B & PS3.A: Forces at a distance are explained by fields. Electric currents cause magnetic fields (Electromagnets). Conversely, changing magnetic fields cause electric fields, inducing a current in a wire (Faraday's Law).

Crosscutting Concepts

Cause and Effect: Empirical evidence shows specific causes and effects. A stationary magnet (cause) produces no current (effect). A moving magnet (cause) induces a current (effect). Reversing the motion reverses the current.