Hal makes an electromagnet with a 9-volt battery, wire, and a steel rod. What is the function of electric current in his electromagnet? (1 point)
Responses
Electric current determines the strength of the magnet.
Electric current determines the strength of the magnet.
Electric current attracts or repels charged objects.
Electric current attracts or repels charged objects.
Electric current creates a magnetic field that charges the rod.
Electric current creates a magnetic field that charges the rod.
Electric current powers the electromagnet.
Electric current powers the electromagnet.
PLzzz help
The correct answer is Electric current powers the electromagnet.
The correct answer is: Electric current creates a magnetic field that charges the rod.
To understand why electric current creates a magnetic field in an electromagnet, let's break down the process:
1. When Hal connects the wires from the 9-volt battery to the steel rod, electric current flows through the wire in a complete circuit. The flow of electric charges creates the electric current.
2. As the electric current passes through the wire, it generates a magnetic field around the wire. This magnetic field is circular and follows the shape of the wire.
3. The steel rod placed inside the wire loop acts as a magnetizable material. When the magnetic field created by the electric current passes through the steel rod, it magnetizes the rod and aligns its magnetic domains in the same direction.
4. The alignment of the magnetic domains in the steel rod creates a stronger overall magnetic field around the rod. This magnetic field is much stronger than the magnetic field produced by the wire alone.
So, in summary, the function of the electric current in Hal's electromagnet is to create a magnetic field that charges the rod, making it a stronger magnet.