KS3 Science · Physics
Magnets and electromagnets
Six short lessons. Look at the picture, learn three things, then play.
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Key words
Magnetic force A non-contact force from a magnet on a magnetic material
Magnetic material A material that a magnet attracts, such as iron, steel, nickel or cobalt
North pole The end of a magnet that points north when the magnet can turn freely
South pole The end of a magnet that points south when the magnet can turn freely
Attract Pull towards each other
Repel Push away from each other
Like poles Two poles of the same kind, which repel
Unlike poles Two different poles, which attract
Magnetic field The space around a magnet where its magnetic force acts
Field lines Lines with arrows that show the direction and strength of a magnetic field
Plotting compass A small compass used to find the direction of a magnetic field
Compass needle A small magnet that can turn freely and lines up with the Earth’s field
Permanent magnet An object that is magnetic all the time
Electromagnet A magnet that is turned on and off by the current through it
Solenoid Wire wound into a tight coil
Core The piece of soft iron that a coil is wound round
Motor A machine in which a coil with a current in it spins between the poles of a magnet