Magnetism and Magnetic Fields

What this unit covers

This unit sits in the Electricity and Magnetism strand of Physics. The resources start with the basics: poles, attraction and repulsion, magnetic materials and field lines. They then move on to electromagnets, the motor effect, transformers and particles moving in magnetic fields.

Some resources name the courses they follow, including GCSE Physics, IGCSE Physics and A-level Physics. Others are simple class tests, so check the title and the content before you begin.

Where to start

1. Open the Magnets and electromagnetism mind map. It covers poles, field lines and the iron shavings or compass test.
2. Go through the Magnetic Field Definitions flashcards. They ask what a magnetic field is and what the arrow on a field line shows.
3. Take the Magnetism Quiz. It asks which materials are magnetic and what makes an electromagnet stronger.

Using quizzes and maps together

Look at a mind map first, then close it and take a quiz. Note the questions you miss and go back to the branch of the map that covers them. Flashcards help with short definitions, such as ferrous materials or lines of force.

For the next step, try IGCSE Physics Magnets and Currents, which includes the DC motor and transformers with their primary and secondary coils. The mind map on the motor effect for AQA GCSE explains that the force on a current-carrying wire depends on the strength of the magnet and the size of the current.

For teachers

The page lists notes, slide sets and quizzes that can be set as they are. Examples include the slide set on Earth as a magnet and several short writing prompts on bar magnets, electromagnets and magnetic fields. All of them were made by GoConqr users.

Make it yours

When you have worked through a few resources, write your own summary of poles, fields and the motor effect. Then turn it into a set of flashcards for next time.