ELECTRIC MOTORS AND ELECTROMAGNETIC INDUCTION
3 marks · EasyThe diagram below shows a simple electromagnet made by wrapping wire around an iron nail and connecting the ends to a battery.
Name the core material used in this electromagnet.
State one way, apart from using more batteries, to make this electromagnet stronger.
Explain why a soft iron core is used rather than a steel nail.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
(a) Iron (soft iron)
(b) Increase the number of turns on the coil OR use a stronger core
(c) Soft iron is easy to magnetise and demagnetise quickly
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · State iron or soft iron as the core material.
B1 (b) · 1 mark · Any valid method (increase turns, use stronger core, etc.)
B1 (c) · 1 mark · Soft iron is easily magnetised and demagnetised/suitable as an electromagnet.
Worked solution
a) The core is soft iron. b) Increase the number of turns of wire around the core. c) Soft iron can be magnetised and demagnetised quickly, so the electromagnet can be turned on and off easily, unlike steel.