When you think of a battery, you likely imagine a small, portable device that powers various electronic gadgets. However, did you know that a battery can also be used to create a fascinating and useful device called an electromagnet? An electromagnet is a type of magnetic device that uses an electric current to generate a magnetic field.
The basic construction of an electromagnet involves a simple circuit connected to a battery, a wire, and a magnetic material such as a nail. When the circuit is closed and an electric current flows through the wire, the magnetic field is created, which in turn magnetizes the nail. This intriguing phenomenon showcases the relationship between electricity and magnetism and opens the door to various applications.
The nail electromagnet can be used in numerous ways, such as picking up metal objects, creating temporary magnetic locks, or even generating electricity in generators. Its versatility and simplicity make it a popular project for science enthusiasts and students alike. By experimenting with different wire gauges, battery voltages, or even the number of coils, one can adjust the strength of the electromagnet, allowing for customization and further exploration of its magnetic properties.
Battery and Nail Magnetic Device
A battery and nail magnetic device is a simple circuit that can create an electromagnet. The electromagnet is created by wrapping wire around a nail and connecting it to a battery. When the circuit is complete, the current flows through the wire and creates a magnetic field around the nail.
Components
To build a battery and nail magnetic device, you will need the following components:
- A nail
- Insulated copper wire
- A battery
How It Works
The nail acts as a magnet when an electric current passes through it. When the wire is wrapped around the nail and connected to the battery, the battery provides the necessary voltage to create a flow of electrons through the wire. This flow of electrons creates a magnetic field around the nail, turning it into an electromagnet.
The strength of the electromagnet can be increased by increasing the number of wire coils around the nail and by using a higher voltage battery. The direction of the magnetic field can be reversed by reversing the direction of the current flow.
Uses
A battery and nail magnetic device can be used in various applications. Some examples include:
- As a simple science experiment to demonstrate the principles of electromagnetism
- In DIY projects to create small magnetic devices
- In educational settings to teach students about magnets and electricity
Overall, a battery and nail magnetic device is a simple and inexpensive way to create an electromagnet for various purposes. It is a great starting point for exploring the world of magnets and electricity.
Components of a Battery and Nail Magnetic Device
A battery and nail magnetic device consists of several important components that work together to create a functioning electromagnet. These components include:
Battery
The battery is the power source for the magnetic device. It provides the necessary electrical energy to activate the electromagnet. The positive and negative terminals of the battery are connected to the circuit to create a flow of current. Without a battery, the magnetic device would not be able to function.
Electromagnet
The electromagnet is the core component of the magnetic device. It is created by wrapping a coil of wire around a nail. When current flows through the wire, it generates a magnetic field around the nail, making it magnetic. The strength of the electromagnet depends on the number of wire turns and the amount of current passing through it.
Circuit
The circuit connects the various components of the magnetic device together. It consists of wires that connect the battery’s positive terminal to one end of the coil and the battery’s negative terminal to the other end of the coil. This completes the electrical circuit and allows the current to flow through the wire, creating the magnetic field around the nail.
The magnetic device is a simple yet effective way to demonstrate the principles of electromagnetism. By understanding the components and how they work together, it becomes clear how electrical energy can be converted into magnetic energy, and how the magnetism can be controlled using the battery and circuit.
Working Principle of Battery and Nail Magnetic Devices
An electromagnet is a device that produces a magnetic field when an electric current is passed through it. It consists of a coil of wire wrapped around a core material, which is often a nail. When a battery is connected to the electromagnet, the electric current flows through the wire and creates a magnetic field around the core.
The nail, acting as the core material, enhances the magnetic field produced by the coil of wire. The magnetic field causes the nail to become magnetized, turning it into a temporary magnet. This temporary magnet can then attract and hold other magnetic objects, such as iron filings or small metal objects.
The working principle of the battery and nail magnetic device is based on the interaction between the magnetic field produced by the electromagnet and the magnetic properties of the objects being attracted. The battery provides the electrical energy needed to create the magnetic field, while the nail acts as the core material to amplify the magnetic field. This allows the device to attract and hold magnetic objects, demonstrating the magnetic properties of these materials.
In summary, the working principle of the battery and nail magnetic device is the generation of a magnetic field through the use of an electromagnet with a nail as the core material. The battery provides the necessary electrical energy to create the magnetic field, and the nail enhances the strength of the magnetic field. This allows the device to attract and hold magnetic objects, showcasing the magnetic properties of the materials involved.
Applications of Battery and Nail Magnetic Devices
Battery and nail magnetic devices, also known as electromagnets, have various applications in different fields. The ability to create a magnetic field with a simple circuit consisting of a battery and a nail allows for the development of useful devices.
One common application of battery and nail magnetic devices is in the construction of electric motors. Electric motors utilize the magnetic properties of electromagnets to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. The battery in the circuit provides the necessary power to create a magnetic field, which interacts with other magnets or conductor coils to generate motion.
Another application of battery and nail magnetic devices is in magnetic locks. These locks use an electromagnet to create a strong magnetic field that attracts and secures a metal object, such as a door or a gate. When the battery-powered circuit is closed, the electromagnet is activated, holding the metal object in place. This provides a secure and efficient method of locking and unlocking doors.
Battery and nail magnetic devices also find applications in the field of medicine. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines use powerful electromagnets to generate a magnetic field that interacts with the body’s protons. By detecting the signals emitted by the protons, MRI machines can create detailed images of the internal structures of the body, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions.
In addition to these examples, battery and nail magnetic devices have numerous other applications in areas such as magnetic levitation, speakers and headphones, magnetic separators, and magnetic sensors. The versatility and ease of use of electromagnets make them a valuable tool in various industries and scientific research.
Application | Description |
---|---|
Electric motors | Convert electrical energy into mechanical energy |
Magnetic locks | Create a strong magnetic field for secure locking |
MRI machines | Create detailed images of the body’s internal structures |
Magnetic levitation | Suspend objects in mid-air using magnetic forces |
Speakers and headphones | Convert electrical signals into sound through electromagnetism |
Magnetic separators | Sepa rate magnetic materials from non-magnetic ones |
Magnetic sensors | Detect and measure magnetic fields |
In conclusion, the applications of battery and nail magnetic devices are vast and varied. They play a crucial role in the development of electric motors, magnetic locks, MRI machines, and many other devices across different industries. The ability to harness electromagnetism through a simple circuit provides endless possibilities for innovation and advancement.
Advantages and Limitations of Battery and Nail Magnetic Devices
Magnetic devices that utilize batteries and nails have become popular in various applications due to their simplicity and affordability. These devices consist of a simple circuit that includes a battery, a nail, and a coil of wire. When the circuit is completed, the flow of current generates a magnetic field, turning the nail into a temporary magnet.
Advantages
One of the main advantages of battery and nail magnetic devices is their simplicity. The components required to build these devices are readily available and inexpensive. This makes them accessible to a wide range of users, including hobbyists and students.
Another advantage is the versatility of these devices. They can be used in a variety of applications such as science experiments, educational demonstrations, and small-scale projects. The magnetic field generated by the nail can be used to pick up small metal objects or create interesting magnetic effects.
Limitations
While battery and nail magnetic devices have their advantages, they also have some limitations. One limitation is the strength of the magnetic field. Due to the small size of the nail and the limited power output of the battery, the magnetic field generated is relatively weak. This limits the device’s ability to attract or manipulate larger or heavier objects.
Another limitation is the temporary nature of the magnetism. Once the circuit is broken, the nail loses its magnetic properties. This means that the device can only hold or attract magnetic objects as long as the circuit remains closed.
Advantages | Limitations |
---|---|
Simple and affordable | Weak magnetic field |
Versatile | Temporary magnetism |
Battery and Nail Magnetic Circuit
In the world of electromagnetism, the interaction between magnetic fields and electric currents is a fascinating subject. One basic example of this interaction can be seen in the battery and nail magnetic circuit.
A nail can be turned into a temporary magnet by using a battery. When a battery is connected to a coil of wire wrapped around a nail, it creates an electromagnet. This electromagnet has a magnetic field around it that can attract and hold magnetic materials.
The battery acts as the power source in this circuit. It provides the electric current that flows through the wire coil, creating a magnetic field. The more power the battery has, the stronger the magnetic field will be. Different types of batteries, such as alkaline or lithium-ion, can be used to vary the strength of the electromagnet.
The nail, on the other hand, acts as the core of the electromagnet. When the electric current passes through the wire coil, it magnetizes the nail, causing it to exhibit magnetic properties. The nail amplifies the strength of the magnetic field created by the coil. The more turns of wire in the coil, the stronger the magnetic field will be.
This magnetic circuit, consisting of the battery, wire coil, and nail, demonstrates the principles of electromagnetism. It shows how the flow of electric current can generate a magnetic field and how magnetic materials like nails can be turned into temporary magnets. This concept is the foundation for many practical applications, from electric motors to magnetic sensors.
Component | Function |
---|---|
Battery | Provides power source for the circuit |
Wire coil | Creates magnetic field when current flows through it |
Nail | Acts as the core of the electromagnet, amplifies magnetic field |
The Basics of a Battery and Nail Magnetic Circuit
In the world of electromagnetism, a battery and nail circuit is a simple yet powerful device that can generate magnetic fields. This circuit consists of a battery, a nail, and a wire, which are all connected to create a closed loop. When the circuit is completed, a magnetic field is created around the nail.
An electromagnet is essentially a coil of wire wrapped around a core material, which in this case is a nail. When a current flows through the wire, a magnetic field is generated, and the nail becomes magnetized. This magnetism can be used to attract or repel other magnets, depending on the orientation of the poles.
The battery acts as a power source for the circuit, providing the necessary energy for the flow of current. It contains two terminals – a positive terminal and a negative terminal. When connected to the wire, the battery creates an electric potential difference, which causes a flow of electrons through the wire.
The wire serves as the conductor for the current, allowing the electrons to move freely. It is usually made of copper or another highly conductive material. The wire is wrapped around the nail, creating multiple loops that enhance the strength of the magnetic field.
The circuit can be represented by a simple diagram, known as a schematic. It shows the battery as a long line with a positive and negative sign, the nail as a straight line with ends representing the poles, and the wire as a series of loops around the nail. This schematic helps visualize the flow of current and the magnetic field created.
Magnet: | The core material, usually a nail, that becomes magnetized when current flows through the wire. |
Battery: | The power source for the circuit, providing the energy for the flow of current. |
Electromagnet: | The circuit consisting of the battery, nail, and wire that generates a magnetic field. |
Circuit: | The closed loop formed by the battery, nail, and wire that allows the flow of current. |
In conclusion, the combination of a battery and a nail in a circuit is a simple yet effective way to create an electromagnet. Understanding the basics of how this circuit works can help in various applications, such as in the construction of electric motors, speakers, and magnetic locks.
Understanding the Components of a Battery and Nail Magnetic Circuit
When it comes to creating a magnetic field, one common way is by using a battery and a nail. This simple setup can be used to demonstrate the principles of electromagnetism and how circuits work.
The Battery: Power Source
The battery is an essential component of the circuit. It provides the power needed to generate the magnetic field. Batteries are designed to store and release electrical energy, and in this case, they supply the current necessary for the creation of the magnetic field.
The Nail: Magnetic Core
The nail acts as the core of the electromagnet. When the circuit is closed and electric current flows through the wire wrapped around the nail, a magnetic field is generated. The nail increases the strength of the magnetic field due to its ferromagnetic properties, which make it easily magnetizable.
To enhance the magnetic field produced by the nail, it is common practice to wrap multiple turns of wire around it. This increases the number of wire loops and, consequently, the strength of the magnetic field.
When the circuit is complete, the battery supplies the necessary electrical energy to create a magnetic field. This magnetic field is then detected by a compass, which aligns with the field lines and shows the presence of a magnetic field.
Conclusion:
The combination of a battery and a nail creates a simple yet effective electromagnet. By understanding the components of the circuit and how they interact, we can gain insight into the principles of electromagnetism. This knowledge forms the basis for more advanced applications of magnets and circuits in various fields, such as engineering and physics.
How to Design a Battery and Nail Magnetic Circuit
An electromagnet is a device that uses an electric current to produce a magnetic field. It consists of a coil of wire wrapped around a magnetic core, which can be a nail or any other ferromagnetic material.
The battery is the power source for the electromagnet. It provides the electric current needed to create a magnetic field. The battery should have a voltage suitable for the application, and the capacity to supply enough current to generate the desired magnetic field strength.
The magnetic circuit is the path that the magnetic field follows. It includes the coil of wire and the magnetic core, such as a nail. To design a battery and nail magnetic circuit, you need to consider the specifications of the electromagnet and the application requirements.
First, determine the desired magnetic field strength for your application. This will depend on factors such as the weight or size of the objects you want to attract, the distance between the electromagnet and the objects, and any other specific requirements.
Next, select a suitable nail as the magnetic core. The nail should be made of a ferromagnetic material, such as iron or steel, to enhance the magnetic field strength. Make sure the nail is clean and free from any coatings or rust that could hinder the magnetic properties.
Then, choose the wire for the coil. The wire should have low resistance to allow sufficient current flow and produce a strong magnetic field. You can use copper wire, which is commonly available and has good conductivity.
After that, determine the number of turns you need for the coil. More turns will increase the magnetic field strength, but will also increase the resistance of the coil. Strike a balance between the two factors based on your application requirements.
Finally, connect the wire to the battery to form a closed circuit. Make sure the wire is securely wrapped around the nail and properly connected to the battery terminals. When the battery is connected, the electric current will flow through the wire, creating a magnetic field around the nail.
By following these steps, you can design a battery and nail magnetic circuit to meet your specific application needs. Remember to take safety precautions when working with electricity and consult relevant resources or professionals if needed.
Applications of Battery and Nail Magnetic Circuits
The battery and nail magnetic circuit has various applications in different fields, thanks to its simplicity and effectiveness. Here are a few examples:
1. Electromagnets: The battery and nail magnetic circuit is commonly used to create electromagnets. By wrapping a wire around the nail and connecting it to a battery, a magnetic field is generated. This property is utilized in various devices, such as doorbells, speakers, and relays.
2. Magnetic Sensors: The battery and nail magnetic circuit can be employed to build magnetic sensors. By using Hall effect sensors or reed switches, the magnetic field generated by the nail electromagnet can be detected and used for various applications, such as proximity sensors, speed sensors, and position sensors.
3. Science Experiments: The battery and nail magnetic circuit is often used in science experiments to demonstrate the principles of electromagnetism. Students can build their own electromagnets using a battery, wire, and nail to observe the effects of electricity on magnetism.
4. Magnetic Fasteners: The battery and nail magnetic circuit can be used as a magnetic fastener or closure in various applications. For example, it can be utilized to create magnetic clasps for jewelry or to secure doors and cabinets with magnetic locks.
5. Motors and Generators: The battery and nail magnetic circuit plays a crucial role in motors and generators. By using the concept of electromagnetic induction, the magnetic field produced by the nail electromagnet can be used to generate motion or generate electricity.
In conclusion, the battery and nail magnetic circuit has a wide range of applications in electromagnets, sensors, science experiments, fasteners, motors, and generators. Its simplicity and versatility make it a valuable tool in various fields.
Battery and Nail Magnet
A battery and nail magnet is a simple device that uses a magnetic field created by a circuit to make a nail magnetic. It demonstrates the principles of electromagnetism and can be a fun and educational experiment for kids and adults alike.
How it Works
To create a battery and nail magnet, you will need a few basic materials: a battery, a nail, a copper wire, and some tape. First, create a simple circuit by attaching one end of the wire to the positive terminal of the battery and the other end to the negative terminal. Make sure the wire is securely attached to the battery terminals.
Next, wrap the wire around the nail several times, making sure each loop is close to the previous one. Keep the wire tight and secure, using tape if needed. The more loops you make, the stronger the magnetic field will be.
When the circuit is complete and the wire is tightly wound around the nail, the battery will generate an electric current. This current creates a magnetic field around the wire, and the nail becomes magnetized. You can test the strength of the magnet by seeing how many paperclips it can attract.
Applications
The battery and nail magnet is a simple demonstration of electromagnetism, but it has many real-world applications. Electromagnets are used in a variety of devices, from doorbells and speakers to generators and motors. Understanding how electromagnets work is essential to many fields, including electronics, engineering, and physics.
By creating your own battery and nail magnet, you can gain a hands-on understanding of the principles behind these devices. It’s a great way to learn about circuits, magnetism, and the relationship between electricity and magnetic fields.
So, grab a battery, a nail, and some wire, and start experimenting with your own battery and nail magnet!
Overview of Battery and Nail Magnets
One fascinating device that demonstrates the power of electromagnetism is the battery and nail magnet. By creating a simple circuit using a battery, a nail, and a few wires, it is possible to generate a strong magnetic field.
An electromagnet is a type of magnet that is created when an electric current flows through a wire. The wire is usually wound into a coil, and when a current is passed through it, it produces a magnetic field. This magnetic field can attract and repel other magnetic objects.
A battery is a source of electrical energy, and it provides the power needed to create the magnetic field in the electromagnet. When a battery is connected to a circuit that includes a nail and wires, the electrical energy is converted into magnetic energy.
The nail serves as the core of the electromagnet. It is made out of a highly magnetic material, such as iron or steel, to enhance the magnetic field. The wires are wrapped around the nail to form a coil, which increases the strength of the magnetic field produced.
When the battery is connected to the circuit, the electrons flow from the negative terminal to the positive terminal, creating a current. This current flows through the wire coil and produces a magnetic field around the nail. The magnetic field is strongest inside the coil and weaker outside of it.
The strength of the magnetic field depends on the number of turns in the coil, the amount of current flowing through the wire, and the material of the nail. By increasing the number of turns in the coil or using a stronger battery, a more powerful electromagnet can be created.
Battery and nail magnets have a wide range of practical applications. They are commonly used in electric motors, generators, transformers, and even MRI machines. Understanding the principles behind these devices is crucial for the development of many modern technologies.
Advantages of Battery and Nail Magnets:
- Easy to create and assemble.
- Can generate strong magnetic fields.
- Can be used in a variety of applications.
- Relatively low cost and readily available materials.
Disadvantages of Battery and Nail Magnets:
- The strength of the magnetic field is limited by battery power and material constraints.
- Require a continuous flow of electrical current to maintain the magnetic field.
- Can generate heat and electromagnetic interference.
Component | Function |
---|---|
Battery | Provides electrical energy to create the magnetic field. |
Nail | Serves as the core of the electromagnet to enhance the magnetic field. |
Wires | Form a coil around the nail, increasing the strength of the magnetic field. |
Can a Battery and Nail Become a Magnet?
Many people are curious to know if a battery and a nail can become a magnet. The short answer is yes, they can. However, it’s not just the battery and the nail alone that create the magnetic effect, but rather the circuit that is created when the two are connected.
The Circuit
In order to create a magnet using a battery and a nail, you need to connect the two in a circuit. A circuit is a closed loop through which electricity can flow. When the battery is connected to the nail, it completes the circuit and allows for the flow of electric current.
It’s important to note that the type of battery used in this experiment can affect the strength of the magnetic field. For example, a larger battery will typically produce a stronger magnetic effect compared to a smaller battery.
The Nail as a Magnet
When the circuit is completed, the nail can become a temporary magnet. This is because the flow of electric current through the nail causes the atoms within it to align in a specific way, creating a magnetic field around the nail.
It’s important to note that the nail only remains magnetic as long as the circuit is closed. Once the circuit is broken, the nail loses its magnetic properties and returns to being a regular nail.
Overall, while a battery and a nail alone may not be magnetic, when connected in a circuit, they can create a temporary magnetic effect. This is a simple demonstration of how electricity and magnetism are interconnected, and it can be a fun and educational activity for kids and adults alike.
How to Make a Battery and Nail Magnet
If you want to create your own electromagnet using just a battery and a nail, you’ve come to the right place. With this simple DIY project, you can turn a regular nail into a magnetic device that can lift small objects. Follow the steps below to make your own battery and nail magnet.
Materials you will need:
- A battery (preferably a AA or AAA battery)
- A nail (preferably a steel nail)
Steps:
- Start by making sure your battery is fully charged and working properly.
- Take the nail and wrap one end of a copper wire around the head of the nail. Make sure it is tightly secured.
- Leave a long tail of wire extending from the nail.
- Now, strip the insulation off the other end of the wire to expose the bare metal.
- Hold the exposed end of the wire against the positive terminal of the battery. Make sure the wire is securely in place.
- Take the other end of the wire (the long tail) and touch it gently to the negative terminal of the battery.
- Watch as the nail becomes a magnet! The electromagnet should be able to attract small metal objects like paper clips or pins.
Note: The strength of the electromagnet depends on the size of the battery and the number of coil wraps around the nail. Experiment with different battery sizes and coil lengths to achieve the desired magnetic strength.
Remember to handle the battery and nail with care, as they can become hot after prolonged use. Also, never place the positive and negative wires of the electromagnet together, as it can cause a short circuit.
Now that you know how to make a battery and nail magnet, have fun experimenting with its magnetic abilities!
Uses of Battery and Nail Magnets
- Battery and nail magnets are widely used in various industries for their magnetic properties.
- They are commonly used to attract and hold metallic objects, such as screws, nuts, and bolts in workshops.
- These magnets are also used in magnetic pickups in electric guitars and other musical instruments.
- They are an essential component in many electronic devices, such as speakers and headphones, where they convert electrical signals into sound waves.
- The magnetic field generated by these magnets is utilized in generators and motors to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy and vice versa.
- Battery and nail magnets are used in magnetic locks for doors and gates, providing a secure and reliable locking mechanism.
- They are utilized in the healthcare industry for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, which provide detailed images of internal body parts for diagnostic purposes.
- These magnets are also employed in magnetic stirrers used in laboratories to mix substances without the need for manual stirring.
- They find applications in magnetic separators to remove unwanted magnetic materials from mixtures in industries such as mining and recycling.
- Additionally, battery and nail magnets are used in educational settings for science experiments and demonstrations to teach students about magnetism and electromagnetism.
Benefits and Potential Drawbacks of Battery and Nail Magnets
One of the main benefits of using battery and nail magnets is their ability to create a strong magnetic force. The combination of a battery, nail, and circuit can create a simple yet effective electromagnet. This can be useful in various applications where a temporary or portable magnet is needed.
Benefits:
1. Portable: Battery and nail magnets are easy to carry and can be used in situations where a traditional magnet may not be practical or available. This makes them ideal for on-the-go applications or in remote locations.
2. Adjustable Strength: Unlike permanent magnets, the strength of a battery and nail magnet can be easily adjusted by changing the number of coils in the circuit or the current flowing through it. This flexibility allows users to tailor the magnet’s strength to suit their specific needs.
3. Temporary Magnetization: Battery and nail magnets only produce a magnetic field when an electric current is flowing through the circuit. This means that the magnet can be turned on and off as needed, providing control over its magnetizing capabilities.
Potential Drawbacks:
1. Power Consumption: The use of batteries to power the magnet can result in significant power consumption, especially if the magnet needs to be used continuously or for long periods of time. This can limit the effectiveness of the magnet in certain applications.
2. Limited Strength: While battery and nail magnets can generate a strong magnetic field, they may not be as powerful as permanent magnets. This can affect their ability to attract or hold certain materials or objects.
3. Size and Weight Constraints: The need for batteries and circuitry can make battery and nail magnets bulkier and heavier compared to permanent magnets. This can limit their use in applications where size and weight are critical factors.
Despite these potential drawbacks, battery and nail magnets can still be a valuable tool in various applications. Their portability, adjustable strength, and temporary magnetization capabilities make them a versatile option for creating a magnetic field when needed.
Benefits | Potential Drawbacks |
---|---|
Portable | Power Consumption |
Adjustable Strength | Limited Strength |
Temporary Magnetization | Size and Weight Constraints |
Question and Answer:
What is a battery and nail electromagnet?
A battery and nail electromagnet is a simple device that uses a battery, a nail, and wire to create a temporary magnet.
How does a battery and nail electromagnet work?
A battery and nail electromagnet works by using the electric current from a battery to create a magnetic field around a nail. When the current flows through the wire coiled around the nail, it creates a magnetic field that magnetizes the nail.
What materials are needed to make a battery and nail electromagnet?
To make a battery and nail electromagnet, you will need a battery (such as a AA or AAA battery), a nail (made of ferromagnetic material), wire (such as copper wire), and optionally, some insulating tape.
What are the practical uses of a battery and nail electromagnet?
A battery and nail electromagnet can be used for various purposes, such as picking up small metal objects, creating simple motors, or demonstrating the basic principles of electromagnetism.
Can a battery and nail electromagnet be made stronger by using a larger battery?
Using a larger battery can increase the strength of a battery and nail electromagnet to a certain extent. However, there are other factors like the amount of wire turns and the type of nail that also affect the strength of the electromagnet.