8th Grade Physics: Magnetism & Electricity Study Guide

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers fundamental concepts of physics including magnetism, magnetic materials, static vs. current electricity, and electromagnetism.

Magnetism

A force that causes attraction or repulsion between objects.

Poles

The two ends of a magnet, labeled North and South, where the magnetic force is strongest.

Magnetic field

The invisible area around a magnet where magnetic force is present; field lines go from North to South.

Ferromagnetic materials

Materials attracted to magnets, specifically including iron, nickel, and cobalt.

Earth’s Magnetic Field

The reason a compass works, as the tool aligns with this field and points north because Earth acts like a giant magnet.

Static electricity

The buildup of electric charges on an object that occurs when electrons are transferred between objects.

Current electricity

The flow of electric charge through a conductor created by electrons moving through wires.

Conductors

Materials that allow electricity to flow, such as copper.

Insulators

Materials that block electricity, such as plastic and rubber.

Electromagnetism

The relationship between electricity and magnetism.

Electromagnet

A temporary magnet created by electric current whose strength can be increased by adding more coils or increasing current.

Electrons

The subatomic particles responsible for electric charge.

Like poles/charges

Two identical poles or charges that repel each other when brought together.

Opposite poles/charges

Two different poles or charges that attract each other when brought together.