Purpose
In this activity, students will investigate the electric origin of magnetic fields.
Discussion
In Magnetic Personality, you investigated the magnetic field around various configurations of bar magnets. But where does the magnetic field come from? What’s going on inside a bar magnet to make it magnetic? In this activity, you will discover the origin of all magnetic fields.
Required Equipment
Large battery (6 V lantern battery or 1.5 V igniter battery), 4 small compasses, small platform (a discarded compact disc or equivalent), support rod with base, ring clamp, connecting wires.
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Student Worksheet Teacher Notes
The "Small Platform" required for this lab a standard compact disk, any small platform to hold the assembly would work. Each lab group would need access to one of each; see lab detail for specific use.
