Electricity and Magnetics in Action

How is electricity formed? Electricity is formed by the movement of electrons between atoms. Electron Atom Atom

What causes magnetism? Magnetism is caused by the movement of electrons within an atom.

How do electricity and magnetism interact? Since both electricity and magnetism involve movement of electrons, they are related to each other. A magnetic field can be used to create electricity. Electricity can be used to create magnetic fields.

Solenoids A solenoid is a loop of wire with a current running through the loops. A solenoid creates a magnetic field. Uses: Starters in cars Paintball guns triggers Pinball Machines

Electromagnets Electromagnets are solenoids that have a ferromagnetic core. Ferromagnetic – a metal that can be magnetized. The core increases the strength of the magnetic field Uses: Motors / Generators MRI machines Speakers

Galvanometers A galvanometer is any device that uses a solenoid to measure small amounts of currents. The solenoid is between the poles of two magnets. As the current in the wire changes, the solenoid lines up differently. Example: Gasoline gauge on cars.

Electric Motors Electric motors work by using magnetic fields to spin a metal rod. A battery is attached to a metal loop between the poles of a magnet. The current in the loop causes a magnetic field in the wire. This causes the rod attached to the wire to spin.

Loudspeakers Speakers use magnets to make a metallic foil vibrate. The vibrating foil makes the sound.