Magnetism and Electromagnetism Study Guide

Flashcards based on key concepts from a study guide on magnetism and electromagnetism.

What are the two types of poles in a magnet?

North and South Poles.

What is the magnetic field?

The area surrounding a magnet where magnetic forces are exerted.

What is the angle of magnetic deviation?

The difference between the direction to true North and magnetic North.

What determines the direction of a magnetic field?

The direction of current flow.

Where is the magnetic field strongest?

At the poles of the magnet.

What does a compass consist of?

A tiny bar magnet that is free to rotate.

To what part of the earth does the north pole of a compass point?

The geographic North Pole, which is near the magnetic South.

What is an electromagnet?

A current-carrying wire coiled around an iron core.

What are the two types of transformers and their functions?

Step-up transformers increase voltage by increasing the number of coils; step-down transformers decrease voltage by decreasing the number of coils.

What can be done to strengthen the magnetic field of an electromagnet?

1. Include more coils, 2. Increase the current, 3. Use a different, more conductive material.

What type of energy sources are used in power plants?

Examples include nuclear, gas, steam, coal, wind, and water.

What are temporary magnets?

Magnets that can be easily magnetized and unmagnetized.

What defines a permanent magnet?

They are difficult to magnetize and unmagnetize.

What is a magnetic domain?

A region of a magnet where the electrons' spin aligns, keeping it magnetized.