Make an Electromagnet

Jennifer and Daniel learn that electricity and magnetism are connected. In this activity, children explore an electromagnet with an adult and an age-appropriate classroom kit. They compare how the core attracts paper clips before, during, and after a brief connection to the battery. Recording their results helps them discover how current in a coil produces a magnetic field.

Materials An age-appropriate electromagnet kit with its specified batteries and connectors, identical paper clips, and a notebook.

Experiment or Activity 

1. An adult assembles the electromagnet according to the kit instructions. Keep the power disconnected until ready.

2. Before switching on, test whether the core attracts paper clips. Record the result.

3. Connect power only for the brief period allowed by the kit. Count how many paper clips the electromagnet lifts.

4. Disconnect and compare the result. If the kit permits changing coil turns, repeat with a different number while keeping other conditions similar.

Safety note Adult supervision required. Follow the kit’s connection limits. Disconnect between tests. Stop immediately if a battery or wire becomes warm. Adults handle wire preparation and pointed parts. Keep small parts away from younger children.

What children learn Current in a coil produces a magnetic field. With other conditions similar, additional wire turns can increase the field. Some iron cores may retain a little magnetism after disconnection.

Think about it How did switching the current on change your result?