I'm Out of This Popsicle Stand

Honors Physics indulged themselves in a small lab activity concerning electromagnets. Students investigated the relationship between number of coils and magnetic field. A clean, linear relationship was demonstrated that allowed students to predict the magnetic field strength for any number of windings. Students then struck the recently magnetized iron nail and compared its magnetic field strength pre- and post-strike. The field strength was markedly diminished after striking due to the randomization of the magnetic domains. When we return, we’ll pick up with magnetic forces.

Physical Science B and E handed in their circuits project work and their test corrections. Students, bleating for extra credit, were allowed to conduct an investigation on the properties of the magnetic field around different types and shapes of magnets. Students used compasses to visualize the magnetic field lines and the behavior of the compass gave a qualitative measure of the magnet’s strength. We ended the lab with and introductory discussion of magnetic field lines and types and features of permanent magnets. On return – magnetism and more magnetism.

Physics F conducted their lab investigation on permanent and electromagnets. They correlated distance with magnetic field strength and profiled the magnetic field along the length of a bar magnet. Students then turned attention to the electromagnet – multiple coils of current-carrying wire with an iron core. They tested the field strength with increased numbers of windings and used the results to predict the field strength for other winding values. Then, they measured the field strength of the newly-magnetized iron nail and compare it to the value for the nail after it had been sharply struck on a hard surface. Due to randomization of the previously-aligned magnetic domains, the field strength of the post-strike nail was markedly less than that of the pre-strike nail. We will look more closely at the idea of magnetic domains when we return from break.

Physics G discussed yesterday’s lab investigation and then conducted a quick investigation on the magnetic field lines of permanent magnets. Students mapped the field lines for bar, disc and cuboidal magnets and made notes on magnet strength. We will discuss these ideas when we return from break.

Homework – None! Have a good April vacation…