Physical science support documents : 2004 curriculum - Page 77

              Physical Science Support Document
Motor: Laboratory
Motor: Laboratory
Purpose
To investigate and analyze magnetism and the practical applications of the characteristics
of magnets.
Materials
• 5 small disk or rectangular ceramic magnets ( available at Radio Shack)
• 2 large paper clips
• A plastic or Styrofoam cup
• A solid ( not stranded) enameled or insulated 20- gauge copper wire, about 2 feet
( 60 cm) long ( available at Radio Shack)
• Masking tape
• A battery or power supply ( a 6 Volt works very well)
• 2 electrical lead wires with alligator clips at both ends ( available at Radio Shack)
• Wire strippers ( if you are using insulated wire)
• Sandpaper ( if you are using enameled wire)
• A battery holder ( if you are using batteries other than a 6 Volt)
Introduction to Student
A coil of wire becomes an electromagnet when current passes through it. The
electromagnet interacts with a permanent magnet, causing the coil to spin. You have
created an electric motor. Follow the directions of your teacher carefully in order to
successfully make an electric motor.
Procedure
Obtain the materials listed above from your teacher. Wind the copper wire into a coil about 1
inch ( 2.5 cm) in diameter. Make four or five loops. Wrap the ends of the wire around the coil a
couple of times on opposite sides to hold the coil together. Leave about 2 inches ( 5 cm)
projecting from each side of the coil, and cut off any extra. ( See diagram below)
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June 2007