Electromagnet

electricity · magnetism · science

Electric current creates it. When electricity flows through a coiled copper wire, it creates a magnetic field around the coil. The more loops in the coil, the stronger the magnet becomes.

Iron core boosts power. If you wrap the wire coil around an iron core, the magnet gets much stronger because iron concentrates and amplifies the magnetic field.

Turn it on and off. Unlike permanent magnets, electromagnets only work when electricity flows through them. Switch off the power, and the magnetic field disappears instantly.

Concentrated and focused. The magnetic field is strongest along the center of the coil, making electromagnets perfect for picking up metal objects or lifting heavy things.