The Big Switch

Key Objectives:Key Objectives:

Demonstrate an understanding of magnetic fields

Construct an electromagnet and explain how it works

Key Objectives:Key Objectives:

Demonstrate an understanding of motors and generators and their uses

Key Objectives:Key Objectives:

Explain the relationship between a magnetic field and electric current and how they combine to form electromagnetic induction

Key TermsKey Terms

Electric MotorElectric GeneratorElectromagnetElectric FieldMagnetic Field(Electromagnetic) Induction

Electric Motor

A device that converts/ transforms electrical energy into mechanical energy

Electric Generator

A device that

converts/transforms

mechanical energy

into electrical

energy

Electromagnet

A coil wrapped around a soft iron core and that acts as a magnet when an electric current runs through the coil

Electric Field

The space around an electrically charged object around which another charged object experiences electric force

Magnetic Field

The area around a magnet where the magnetic force can be felt

It runs from end to end or from the north pole to the south pole of the magnet.

Electromagnetic Induction

The process in which a magnet passes through a copper coil creating an electrical field– The generation of

electricity

Lab Break

Now you can partner up and go to any station to begin your observations

Remember to answer each arrow before moving on

Remember to read and follow all lab directions.

LAB BREAK

Begin work on part 2Read and follow each step of the labRemember to write responses as you

go.Complete all of part 2 with your partnerYou have 20 minutes

Page 23

Question 2

Page 25

Question 2

Essential Learnings

A current-carrying wire is surrounded by an electromagnetic field.

Essential Learnings

An electromagnet is produced when current passes through a wire coiled around an iron or steel rod

Essential Learnings

Forces of repulsion and attraction cause motion when magnetic fields interact.

Essential Learnings

Motors transform electrical energy into mechanical energy.

Essential Learnings

Inside the motor –Current creates two opposing electromagnets on the armature (the copper coil and iron part that spins)

Essential Learnings

Inside the motor –The electromagnets on the armature repel the stationary magnets in position around the armature

Essential Learnings

Generators transform mechanical energy into electrical energy.

Essential Learnings

Inside the generator–electromagnetic induction occurs as a copper coil passes through a magnetic field, creating electric current

Essential Learnings

Both motors and generators have the same basic parts but their operations are reverse

Essential Learnings

Internal components of motors and generators

– A coil of copper wire wrapped around a soft iron core (armature)

– A set of permanent magnets that create a magnetic field

Essential Learnings

The differences between them is the direction of the energy flow and the energy transformation order

Why “The Big Switch” ?

The term “switch” refers to the changeover from motor to generator of what is basically the same device.

As the direction of the energy transformation “switches” the device’s purpose “switches”

From One to the Other!!!

A Windmill (Wind Turbine)

Windmills generators transform mechanical energy to electrical energy.

Done by creating an electric field inside the generator (electromagnet induction) when a copper coil passes through a magnetic field

Wind Turbine