K323 / 2027

Chapter 18

Electromagnetism

A current produces a magnetic field and can experience a force in another magnetic field.

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  1. Magnetic fields from currents

    Draw straight-wire and solenoid fields, then predict the effects of changing or reversing current.

  2. Using electromagnets

    Connect a controlled current and an iron core to lifting and a magnetic overcurrent trip.

  3. Magnetic force and its direction

    Use experiments and current/field directions to explain forces on a wire and a charged-particle beam.

  4. Why a current-carrying coil turns

    Find the forces on the two active sides and explain how current and turn count affect turning.

  5. The single-coil d.c. motor

    Trace the coil connections, half-turn current reversal and role of the soft-iron cylinder.

Syllabus coverage

This chapter covers Electromagnetism, topic 18(a-f), in the K323 syllabus (2027) and 6091 (2026).

Keep current, field and force directions distinct, then use them to explain an observation or a turning coil.

Straight wires, solenoids, electromagnets, conductor and charged-beam forces, turning coils and the single-coil d.c. motor.

View the learning outcomes
18(a)
Draw straight-wire and solenoid fields and state the effects of current magnitude and direction. Magnetic fields from currents
18(b)
Describe applications of the magnetic effect of current, including electromagnets and circuit breakers. Using electromagnets
18(c)
Describe force experiments on a conductor and charged-particle beam, including current and field reversal. Magnetic force and its direction
18(d)
Use Fleming's left-hand rule to deduce perpendicular force, field and current directions. Magnetic force and its direction
18(e)
Explain coil turning and the increases from greater current or more turns. Why a current-carrying coil turns
18(f)
Explain split-ring action in a two-pole single-coil motor and the effect of a soft-iron cylinder. The single-coil d.c. motor