Magnets & Static Electricity

Front

What is a magnet?

Back

A magnet is an object that can attract certain metals like iron and produce a magnetic field.

Front

What is a magnetic field?

Back

A magnetic field is the area around a magnet where magnetic forces can be felt.

Front

What is an electromagnet?

Back

An electromagnet is a type of magnet that is created by electric current flowing through a wire.

Front

What materials can magnets attract?

Back

Magnets can attract materials like iron, nickel, and cobalt.

Front

What is static electricity?

Back

Static electricity is the build-up of electric charge on the surface of objects.

Front

What happens when you rub a balloon on your hair?

Back

Rubbing a balloon on your hair transfers electrons, giving the balloon a negative charge.

Front

What is the Van de Graaff generator?

Back

The Van de Graaff generator is a machine that produces static electricity and can make your hair stand up.

Front

What is a neodymium magnet?

Back

A neodymium magnet is a very strong type of permanent magnet made from an alloy of neodymium, iron, and boron.

Front

What is the difference between a permanent magnet and an electromagnet?

Back

A permanent magnet always has a magnetic field, while an electromagnet's magnetic field can be turned on and off with electricity.

Front

What is the purpose of a battery in an electromagnet?

Back

A battery provides the electric current needed to create a magnetic field in an electromagnet.