Magnetism and Electricity Energy: Chapter 12

Experiment Working with your group, determine what happens when both of the poles on the magnet labeled “N” are touching, or both of the poles on the magnet labeled “S.” Determine what happens when you try to match up the opposite ends of the poles of the magnets with one another “N S or S  N” What happens to the magnets in both situations?

1. A magnet is an object or a material that can attract metals containing iron, nickel, or cobalt.

2. Magnets can attract and repel each other.

3. All magnets have a north pole and a(n) south pole.

4. The north poles and south poles of two magnets will repel each other.

5. The attraction of magnets is strongest when magnets are close together.

6. A magnetic field is the area of magnetic force around a magnet.

An electromagnet is a coil of wire wrapped around a metal core; current moving through the wire can be turned off with a(n) switch.

8. Electromagnets are often used to power electric motors.

9. Almost all electricity is produced by generators.

10. Generators produce back and forth current called alternating current. Batteries produce current in one direction, called direct current.

11. Air, steam, and water turn turbines.

12. Electricity from a power plant is carried to a series of transformers.

13. Each transformer in the series increases or decreases the current’s voltage until it is at the right level to enter your home.

Exit Question Do you think there is a difference between the simple motor used in the electric cars your parents may drive and the model cars you and your friends may race?