AHMED SALAMAIGCSE PHYSICS · MAGNETISM LAB
Magnetism · Fields · Materials

Trace the force
you cannot see.

Test poles and materials, map the magnetic field with a compass, reproduce the iron-filings experiment and build an electromagnet.

Investigation 1

Test poles and magnetic materials

Apply attraction and repulsion, then explain attraction of unmagnetised materials by induction.
Target object
Drag the target toward the fixed magnet. Arrow keys work too.
Investigation 2

Probe magnetic field direction

Define field direction using a north pole and relate line spacing to relative field strength.
Magnet arrangement
Move the compass with pointer or arrow keys. Its north end follows the field.
Investigation 3

Reproduce field-plotting methods

Describe the official procedures using iron filings and a plotting compass.
Choose method
Investigation 4

Compare permanent and temporary magnets

Explain why soft iron is used for electromagnets and how current and turns affect strength.
Electromagnet builder
Assessment

Check your learning

Answer everything before revealing explanations.

Learning objectives

  1. Describe forces between magnetic poles.
  2. Explain induced magnetism.
  3. Compare temporary and permanent magnets.
  4. Classify magnetic materials.
  5. Define a magnetic field.
  6. Draw field patterns and directions.
  7. Define direction using a north pole.
  8. Describe plotting methods.
  9. Describe uses of magnets and electromagnets.
  10. Explain interactions using magnetic fields.
  11. Use line spacing to compare field strength.