Electromagnets — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

MS-PS2-3

About This Reader

This middle school science passage introduces students to electromagnets, aligning with NGSS standard MS-PS2-3. It covers the definition and mechanism of electromagnets, explains how electric current and a coiled wire create a temporary magnetic field, and compares electromagnets to permanent magnets. The passage explores real-world applications in technology and daily life, such as electric motors and junkyard cranes, and discusses how electromagnets can be turned on or off and adjusted in strength. Designed for grades 6-8, the resource includes a differentiated version for struggling readers, Spanish translations, a glossary, comprehension quiz, writing prompts, and graphic organizers. All materials support integrated science literacy and are audio-enabled for classroom accessibility and engagement.

CONTENT PREVIEW

A state-of-the-art MRI scanner in a well-lit hospital room, ready for patient use. — Electromagnets are found in industrial devices like MRI machines. Images by MART PRODUCTION / Pexels.

Electromagnets are essential components in modern technology, transforming how we use and control magnetism. In many recycling centers, large cranes use electromagnets to lift and move heavy scrap metal. These magnets can be switched on to attract metal and off to release it. But what exactly makes an electromagnet work, and why are they so useful compared to permanent magnets?

How Electromagnets Work

An electromagnet is a type of temporary magnet created by running an electric current through a coil of wire, often wrapped around an iron core. This arrangement is called a solenoid. When electric current flows through the wire, it produces a magnetic field around the wire. The iron core inside the coil becomes strongly magnetized, greatly increasing the magnet's strength. Unlike permanent magnets, which are always “on,” electromagnets only work when the electric current is flowing. If you disconnect the battery, the magnetic field disappears instantly. The strength of an electromagnet depends on the number of wire coils, the amount of current, and the type of core used. For example, increasing the number of coils or the current will make the electromagnet stronger. Reversing the direction of the current will switch the north and south poles of the magnet.

Advantages and Applications of Electromagnets

Electromagnets have several advantages over permanent magnets. First, they can be turned on and off with a switch, making them very useful in devices that need controlled magnetism. Second, their strength can be easily adjusted by changing the amount of current or the number of coils. Third, electromagnets can be made much stronger than most permanent magnets, especially when a soft iron core is used. Electromagnets are found in many household and industrial devices. Electric motors, doorbells, speakers, and MRI machines all use electromagnets in different ways. In junkyards, huge electromagnets are used to pick up and move car parts. Trains called maglevs use electromagnets to float above tracks, reducing friction and allowing for high-speed travel.

Interactions and Scientific Principles

The science behind electromagnets demonstrates the connection between electricity and magnetism, known as electromagnetism. This relationship is one of the four fundamental forces in physics. Scientists discovered electromagnetism by observing how electric current affects compass needles and iron filings. The ability to control magnetic fields with electricity has led to countless technological advances. For example, the direction of the electric current determines which end of the electromagnet is the north pole. This property allows engineers to design devices like electric switches, relays, and even maglev trains. Understanding electromagnets also helps scientists develop safer medical equipment and renewable energy solutions.

In summary, electromagnets are powerful tools that rely on the interaction between electricity and magnetism. Their strength, controllability, and ability to be turned on and off make them essential in modern technology. As we continue to explore electromagnetism, new innovations and applications are sure to emerge.

Interesting Fact: The world’s largest electromagnet, used in particle physics research, weighs over 1,000 tons and can create a magnetic field 100,000 times stronger than Earth’s!

What is an electromagnet?

A magnet created by electric current flowing through a coil of wireA magnet that is always onA type of batteryA device that only uses magnets with no electricity

Which of the following is NOT a component needed to make a simple electromagnet?

Plastic tubeIron nailCoil of wireBattery

What happens when the electric current is turned off in an electromagnet?

The magnet stops workingThe magnet becomes strongerThe poles switchNothing changes

What is the main advantage of an electromagnet over a permanent magnet?

It can be turned on and offIt is always magneticIt cannot be controlledIt is weaker than permanent magnets

What does the term 'magnetic field' mean as used in the passage?

The area around a magnet where magnetic forces are presentA field where magnets growA special type of wireAnother name for a battery

What does the word 'solenoid' refer to in the text?

A coil of wire that creates a magnetic field when electric current flows through itA type of permanent magnetA kind of batteryA machine that floats

If you increase the number of coils in an electromagnet, what will most likely happen?

The electromagnet will become strongerThe electromagnet will stop workingThe electromagnet will become permanentThe battery will disappear

Why are electromagnets important in maglev trains?

They allow the train to float above the tracks and move with less frictionThey are used to power the train's wheelsThey store water for coolingThey make the train heavier

Electromagnets can be turned on and off. (True/False)

TrueFalse

Permanent magnets only work when electricity is flowing. (True/False)

TrueFalse