Concepts

Ferromagnetism, remanent magnetization

Overview

An electromagnet can be used to attempt to magnetize a few different cores, including a steel core, a soft iron one, and an aluminum one. Different objects can be picked up by the magnetizable cores, including coins and a nail. A small remanent magnetization occurs in the steel rod, allowing it to hold up a nail even after the electromagnet is no longer active. The remanent field is no longer able to hold up the nail once the rod and nail are separated.

Details

Equipment

• [1] Electromagnet
• [1] SPST switch
• [1] Lantern battery
• [1] Banana cable
• [2] Alligator clip
• [1] Lab stand
• [1] 90-degree clamp
• [1] 3-finger clamp
• [1] Steel rod
• [1] Soft iron rod
• [1] Soft iron L-rod
• [1] Aluminum rod
• [3] Coins
• [1] Permanent magnet

Classroom Assembly

1. Mount electromagnet on lab stand.
2. Hook up switch to battery and electrogmagnet.
3. Make sure switch is open.

Important Notes

• Make sure to open the switch when done!

Script

1. Put a metal core inside the electromagnet.
2. Close the switch.
3. Check if the core is attracted to various items.
4. Repeat for different cores.
5. Open the switch when done.

Additional Resources