Electromagnets are fascinating devices that utilize electricity to create a magnetic field. Unlike permanent magnets, which have a fixed magnetic strength, electromagnets offer the unique advantage of controllable magnetism.
How it works:
The core: An electromagnet typically consists of a coil of wire wrapped around a ferromagnetic core (materials like iron that enhance the magnetic field).
Electric current: When you run electricity through the coil, it creates a magnetic field around each individual loop of wire.
Amplifying the effect: By coiling the wire, you essentially stack these individual magnetic fields on top of each other, significantly amplifying the overall magnetic strength.
Turning it on and off: The beauty of electromagnets lies in their dynamic nature. The moment you cut off the electric current, the magnetic field disappears instantly. This allows you to easily control when the magnet is "on" and "off."
Key characteristics:
Real-world applications: