Photo AI
A magnet produces a magnetic field - AQA - GCSE Physics Combined Science - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 2
A magnet produces a magnetic field. Which diagram shows the magnetic field pattern around a bar magnet? Tick one box. Figure 3 shows three metal blocks. The bloc... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A magnet produces a magnetic field - AQA - GCSE Physics Combined Science - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Which diagram shows the magnetic field pattern around a bar magnet? Tick one box.
Answer
The correct diagram represents the magnetic field lines emerging from the north pole (N) and entering the south pole (S) of the bar magnet. The field lines should be drawn symmetrically and should display the strength of the magnetic field by the proximity of the lines.
Step 2
Describe how another permanent magnet can be used to identify the blocks.
Answer
To identify the blocks using another permanent magnet, bring the magnet close to each block:
- Permanent Magnet: The permanent magnet will attract or repel this block strongly, indicating that it is also a magnet.
- Iron Block: The permanent magnet will attract the iron block, confirming its identity as it is a magnetic material.
- Aluminium Block: The permanent magnet will have no effect on the aluminium block, indicating it is not magnetic.
Step 3
Explain how this electromagnet is able to pick up and move the blocks.
Answer
The electromagnet operates through the following steps:
- Completing the Circuit: When the switch is turned on, the circuit is completed, allowing current to flow through the coil surrounding the electromagnet.
- Electromagnetism: The flow of electric current generates a magnetic field around the coil, magnetizing the iron core (if present) of the electromagnet.
- Attracting Blocks: The magnetic field produced allows the electromagnet to attract magnetic materials, like iron, allowing it to pick up and move the blocks.
- Switching Off: When the current is switched off, the magnetic field dissipates, and the electromagnet releases the blocks.