Magnetism and magnetic materials

2 marks · Normal

State two properties of a material that would make it suitable to be used as the core of an electromagnet. Explain your answer.

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Must show: soft magnetic material, easily magnetised and demagnetised

Also accept: Good conductor of magnetism; Loses magnetism quickly when current is switched off

Common mistakes: Choosing magnetically hard materials; Saying 'it is magnetic' only

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · Identifies a soft magnetic material (e.g. soft iron) as suitable OR describes as 'easily magnetised/demagnetised'.

B2 · 1 mark · Explains that this allows the electromagnet to be turned on/off quickly.

Worked solution

A suitable material would be a soft magnetic material such as soft iron, because it is easily magnetised and demagnetised. This means the electromagnet can be switched on and off rapidly.