How to Make An Electromagnet
Electromagnets are advantageous over permanent magnets in that they can be turned on and off at will. Electromagnets are relatively easy to build if you follow a few steps.
Instructions
-
-
1
Take the circular piece of metal [magnet] and wind copper wire around it. The windings should be tight and close together
-
2
Connect one end of the covered copper wound wire to the output side of a switch.
-
-
3
Connect the negative(black) battery terminal to the negative input terminal on the switch.
-
4
Connect the positive battery terminal to the end of the wound wire on the magnet
-
5
Check that the circuit is complete, beginning at the negative terminal of the battery to the input side of the switch, then from the output side of the switch to the magnet windings, then back to the positive terminal of the battery.
-
6
Turn the switch to on and the magnet will work.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Magnet windings can be covered with tape
Circular magnet can be placed in a case for ease of use.
Wiring can be encased in purpose made covers.
Use caution when using higher voltages.
Resources
- Photo Credit lpmpjogja.diknas.go.id/kc/e/electro_magnet/el...
More Like This
Comments
-
' Huanton !
Nov 03, 2008
We did this back in our physics class for fun. Thanks! Good times -
harrietcat
Nov 02, 2008
You can also make an electromagnet by wrapping wire around a nail and attaching both ends directly to a battery. The wire will heat up some so be careful not to leave it connected too long. It worked well enough to show my 4th graders one year the gist of it. Since they have to hold or tape the wires on, it tends to not stay connected very long anyway.
