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The World's Simplest Motor

The World's Simplest Motor

electrons - electricity - magnetism - electromagnet - motor

Students create a simple motor using an electromagnet. 

Introduction

In this activity, students see how an electric current running through a coiled wire creates a magnetic field. Two magnetic fields, repelling and attracting each other, can be used to convert the electrical energy of the battery into the mechanical energy of a spinning part.

This activity can take 20 minutes (including discussion) as a demonstration, or 45 minutes or more if students make one themselves.

Objectives

Students will be able to:

  • Describe the effect of applying electricity to a magnetic object.

Entire Activity

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Other Resources

Full Lesson & other activities - Electric Energy

Science World School Programs - Electricity

Science World's Electricity Online Games 

 



 

 

Comments  

 
#1 An even Simpler Motor! — Hana Dethlefsen 2011-11-15 09:10
Here's an even simpler way to do this activity: http://www.doobybrain.com/2010/11/15/spinning-copper-wire-trick-with-magnet-and-a-battery/
Although it might be hard for younger students to bend the wire this way, it's less finicky, and could be a fantastic demonstration if made larger!