Magnetism: Electromagnetism
Magnetism: Electromagnetism
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Electromagnetism is the branch of physics that deals with the electromagnetic force which occurs between electrically charged particles.
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An electromagnet is a type of magnet in which the magnetic field is produced by an electric current. The magnetic field disappears when the current is turned off.
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The use of electromagnets is widespread in everyday devices and in industries. Concrete examples include hard discs to store computer data, speakers, electric bells, electric motors, MRI scanners, and more.
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The strength of an electromagnet can be altered by changing the current flowing through it or the number of coils it has. An increase in either factor results in a stronger magnetic field.
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DC (direct current) motors work by using the force experienced by a current-carrying wire in a magnetic field to rotate the rotor.
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The left-hand rule, also known as Fleming’s left-hand rule, is used to predict the direction of force that a current-carrying wire feels when it is in a magnetic field.
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The right-hand grip rule relates to the magnetic field around a current-carrying wire. The thumb points in the direction of the conventional current and the fingers curve around in the direction of the magnetic field.
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Specific devices such as transformers and generators exploit electromagnetic induction, which is the generation of a potential difference (or voltage) across a conductor when it moves through a magnetic field.
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The principle of the motor effect, an application of electromagnetism, shows that a force is experienced by a current-bearing wire in a magnetic field.
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An electromagnetic field can induce a current in another circuit as it can cause the movement of charges.
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The Transformer Principle is also based on electromagnetism. It is related to Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction and reveals how alternating current can be stepped up or down in voltage.
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It is crucial to understand the importance of Earth’s magnetic field in relation to electromagnetism. This field not only affects compasses but also protects us from harmful solar radiation.
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Lastly, remember the difference between permanent magnets and electromagnets. Permanent magnets cannot have their magnetic field turned off, while an electromagnet’s magnetic field can be easily turned on and off by manipulating the electric current that generates it.
By revising and understanding these principles, your grasp on the subject of electromagnetism will be firm, aiding your comprehension and application of the principles covered.