Download Magnetic Field Exploration Lab Key:

Magnetic Field Exploration Lab Key:
1. The shape of the magnetic field is arching lines that start at one pole and end at
the other pole.
2. If we were to come back tomorrow and draw the magnetic field again, it would be
exactly the same because the magnetic field of a magnet does not noticeably
change from day to day.
3. When you bring the compass near the magnet the red arrow on the compass points
to a specific end of the magnet (the north pole) and the silver end of the compass
points towards the other end of the magnet (the south pole).
4. When the compass is away from the magnet it is detecting the magnetic field of
the earth.
5. When you bring the magnet near the iron filings, the iron filings line up along the
magnetic field of the magnet. They follow the lines/curves of the magnets
magnetic field.
6. When you turn the circuit on, the compass needles change directions and points to
the north/south poles of the magnetic field generated by the electric current.
7. The relationship between the orientation of the circuit and the magnetic fields is
that the magnetic field is always perpendicular to the motion of the electrical
current.
8. When you moved the magnet in and out of the coils of metal wire, the volt meter
detects a small amount of electrical current. This motion of the magnet along a
series of electrical wire actually generates electricity.
9. The electrical current created by the magnet was a lot smaller than the electrical
current generated by the battery.
10. Comparison of Magnets & electrical currents:
a. Similarities- both have magnetic fields, both have north & south poles,
both have motion of charged particles, both have attractice & repulsive
forces.
b. Differences- Electrical currents can be turned on and off. The electrical
current can very in strength while a magnet has constant strength. The
poles of an electrical current may be reversed.
What causes a magnetic field?
Magnetic fields are generated by electrical currents.
Why does the earth have a magnetic field?
The earth has a magnetic field because the liquid outer core is generating an electrical
current through friction of the moving liquid iron in the outer core.
Why is the north pole and south pole where they are?
The Nor and South poles are perpendicular to the motion of the electrical currents
generated by the outer core.