Download Level - Sackville School

INVESTIGATING ELECTROMAGNETS
INFORMATION
Electromagnets are used in many everyday devices such as speakers in
headphones, mobile phones and cars. It is important that the electromagnets
that are used are at the appropriate strength. If their magnetic field force is too
strong or too weak, the device will not work properly.
THINK ABOUT
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How is an electromagnet made?
What factors could affect its strength?
How could you investigate how a particular factor affects the
electromagnet’s strength?
Cameron carried out an investigation to find out how changing the voltage
affected the strength of an electromagnet. He used a 15cm iron nail, a 2m
length of wire and a power pack that went up to 12V. He investigated the effect
the voltage had on the strength of the electromagnet. He predicted that, the
higher the voltage, the stronger the electromagnet will be.
Voltage (V)
2
4
6
8
10
Number of paperclips picked up
Repeat 1
Repeat 2
Repeat 3
1
11
17
37
wire too hot
1
15
18
38
wire too hot
Average number
of paperclips
1
10
23
28
wire too hot
TASK
Calculate the average for each set of results. Draw a graph for Cameron’s
results using the Level Ladder to help. Decide on a conclusion for each of
Cameron’s results using the Level Ladder.
Top tips for drawing a great line graph:
 Use a sharp pencil and ruler.
 Draw the graph to a good size.
 Put the independent variable on the x axis.
 Put the dependent variable on the y axis.
 Select a suitable scale for each axis.
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Label both axes including correct units.
Plot each result on the graph using a small
neat cross.
Carefully draw a line (or curve) of best fit.
Write a suitable title for the graph.
KEY WORDS: accurate, dependent variable, electromagnet, independent variable,
length, reliable, voltage
 BADGER PUBLISHING LTD
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