Electromagnetism: If we increase the current/voltage in an electromagnet then its magnetic becomes stronger because as electrons flow through a wire/coil they produce a magnetic field, if we were to increase/decrease the current flowing through a wire, coil, or electromagnet the magnetic field will change in proportion to the current. 

For example, if we were to increase the current the magnetic field will grow longer/stronger if we were to decrease the current then it would grow smaller/weaker. This is the relationship between the magnetic field in proportion to the current. 

Generator: If we spin the hand crank faster then the voltage on the output will increase because as we spin the hand crank faster it makes the coil spin faster as well, this causes a higher number of electrons to move increasing the current and voltage. 

For example, it's similar to increasing the current/voltage in an electromagnet causing the magnetic field to strengthen. If we increase the speed of rotations of the coil in a strong magnetic field then the current/voltage will go up as well. The speed of rotations and the current/voltage are directly proportional to each other.

Electricity to Magnetism:

• First electric generator dates back to a discovery by Hans Christian Oersted and Andre-Marie Ampere in 1820
• Noticed relationship between electricity and magnetism 
• Oersted observed → compass needle turned when it was near a wire with a electric current
• Amount of deflection depended on how much electric current flowing in the wire
• When direction of current reversed, needle of compass movies in opposite direction, 
• When current interrupted, magnetic effects stopped

Electromagnets:

• If soft iron core inserted into coil of wire, and if current passed through wire, a stronger temporary magnet called electromagnet is created
• When electric current flows through coil, one end is the magnetic north pole, other is the south pole
• The more iron coils of wire wrapped around the iron core, the strength of magnet increases
• If current increases, the strength of magnet increases
• If direction of current reversed, polarity of magnet reversed
• If current turned off, iron core loses its magnetic properties
• Strength of electromagnet depends on the core material
• Iron core more effective than other metals, wood, plastic at producing strong electromagnets
• Michael Faraday (1791-1867) → Discovered the basic principles of electromagnetism
• Faraday was interested in chemistry and physics while reading science texts while employed as bookbinder
• At 21, accepted to be laboratory assistant tot Humphrey Davy
• Faraday’s experiments form basis of modern electromagnetic tech and electrochemistry
• Introduced term such as → ion, electrode, cathode, anode, 
• Invented idea of lines of magnetic force
• “Farad” → unit for stored electricity (named from his name) 
• Faraday made contribution to the study of electromagnetism (one of the four fundamentals forces nature)
• Discovered Faraday’s law of electrolysis (Math to connect current flowing through a circuit to the mass of chemical substance moving through the battery) 
• Discovered/ isolated different compounds (benzene)
• Faraday’s law - describes concept of electromagnetic induction
• Electromagnetic = electricity + magnetism → led to development of generators, motors, other circuit technology
• Faraday did all this by trying stuff in his lab
• Faraday disc: Electric generator where electricity is generated by rotating a metal disc through magnetic field
• Faraday cage: Shield against outside electromagnetic fields (covered room in foil , realized that if you have a conductive shell, it will distribute electric charges in a way so that electromagnetic fields are kept outside the shell, and stop it from coming into the shell)
• Faraday cages used to shield sensitive electronics from outside interference
• “Farad” unit of measurement which is used to describe amount of charge stored in system

 

• An electromagnet is a magnet that uses electricity to power it.
• This type of magnet is that you can turn the magnet on and off
• Magnets are pieces of metal, like iron, that have the ability to attract other metals.
• First, a piece of iron, such as a rod of iron or even a nail, is wrapped in a strand of copper wire.
• Then, using a battery or other device, electricity is run through the copper wire
• This creates a electromagnet
• The electricity running through the wire magnetizes the iron bar, which means that it makes it attract other metals.
• You can shut off the electromagnet by stopping the electric current running through the copper wire and you've just got a chunk of iron with no magnetic properties.
• Two main ways that the strength of an electromagnet can be changed
• One way is to simply increase the amount of electricity running through the wire = make the electric current stronger, hence making the magnet stronger.
• A second way is to wrap the copper wire even tighter around the iron, making less space between the coils and therefore more turns around the iron. = increase the amount of electricity running over the iron and make the magnetic power stronger.

 

• Toasters use electromagnets to provide heat and to tell the toaster when to pop up the bread.
• Blenders, drills, and even generators use electromagnets to help power the motors.
• Electromagnetic door locks are used to keep doors secure. The doors are kept locked using an electromagnet and a metal plate, until someone pushes a button to stop the electrical current, and then the door can be opened.

 

• A simple electromagnet consists of an electric power source connected to a wire coiled around a soft iron bar.
• The main advantage of an electromagnet over a permanent magnet is that the magnetic field can be quickly changed by controlling the amount of electric current in the winding. However, unlike a permanent magnet that needs no power, an electromagnet requires a continuous supply of current to maintain the magnetic field.

 

Magnetisim 

• 19th century: Electric currents can create magnetic fields
• Magnetic fields do induce electric currents, only when magnetic field is changing with time (led to creation of hard drives) 
• Faraday's Law of Induction: Constant magnetic field didn’t cause an electric current in loop of wire, a changing magnetic field did
• Faraday’s Law of Induction: A changing magnetic field will induce and EMF in a loop of wire (EMF - Electromotive force which causes electrons to move and form a current)
• Other things which induce EMF:
  • Changing area of loop of wire
  • Changing angle between loop in magnetic field
  • Magnetic flux induces EMF (Magnetic flux → measure of magnetic field running through loop of wire, when field changed, EMF induced) 
     

Three factors that affect magnetic field and magnetic flux through loop:

1. Strength of magnetic field 
2. Area of loop (Bigger loop, larger magnetic field running through it, vice versa)
3. Angle between magnetic field in line perpendicular to face of loop

• When all these factors combined → magnetic flux is equal to magnetic field in strength, times area of loop, times cosine of angle between magnetic field and perpendicular line
• If magnetic field and loop perpendicular, magnet flux will be equal to strength of magnetic field times area of loop 

We can change the amount of electric current flow in several ways:

1. move the magnet faster = more current flows
2. use a stronger magnetic field = still more current flows
3. now coil the wire (more area) so that several turns are in the path of the field, = again the current flow is increased 
4. stop moving the magnet = current flow stops

Magnetism to Electricity:

• Magnetic effects produced by electric currents
• Electric currents can also be produced using magnets
• Michael Faraday and Joseph Henry found this out in 1831 (Worked individually) 
• Found → voltage developed in wires which moved at an angle to nearby magnet
• When magnet and wire moved parallel to each other, no voltage developed
• Faraday and Henry connected wire to load (extended their experiment by doing this)
• Because of this, an electric current flowed through circuit, but only as long as either wire of magnet or both were moving
• If wire wrapped into coil around magnet, it increased the current   

• Potential difference (voltage) is applied in a wire when there is motion between wire and nearby magnet
• When wire connected to circuit, “induced current” flows
• This connection between magnetism and electricity was used to develop motors, generators, and other electric tech before scientific theories were developed to explain relationship
• Outside force can break an electron away from an atom and start an electron chain reaction, an electric current flow. 
• One way to provide that outside force is by use of a magnet. 
• It was proved with iron filings that a magnet has magnetic lines of force which connect its poles. 
• The magnetic field strikes the atom supplying energy, which forces an electron to leave its atom and become a free electron. 
• The result is a sort of electron "chain reaction". 
• In a substance such as a length of wire electrons are normally moving in all directions, but when a magnetic field is passed through the wire, several electrons are forced from their atoms and move in one direction
• When the magnetic field sweeps down across the wire, electrons move in one direction. When the magnetic field sweeps up across the wire the electrons move in the opposite direction. 
• This movement of electrons in either direction constitutes an electric current flow. 
• If we move the magnetic field more slowly across the wire fewer electrons are affected, in a given period of time the electric current flow is decreased and when we stop moving the magnetic field the electric current flow stops (and the electrons again move in all directions).
• If this wire is connected to a meter we find there is no electric current flow. When the magnetic field is moved down this meter shows current flow in one direction. If the magnetic field is moved up the meter shows current flow in the opposite direction.

 

Electromagnet Uses:

• Experimental maglev (magnetic levitation) → trains use repulsion between electromagnets on train cars and electromagnets mounted between tracks to suspend entire train above track reducing friction and increasing efficiency
• Hospitals MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) equipment → Atoms in a patient's body are twisted by the powerful magnets, emitting radio signals that can be detected, analyzed, and assembled into images by computer. MRI equipment produces detailed images of soft body tissues that can't be examined using x-rays

What’s in a generator?

AC Generators: 

• Has a coil of wire which rotates around stationary field magnet
• Coil rotated by external force such as steam, falling water, wind
• Large generators usually use electromagnets rather than permanent magnets
• When wires in coil rotate, electrons move along wire in one direction
• After one-half revolution of wire loop, each side of coil passes near the opposite pole of magnet
• Electrons in the coil start moving in the other direction
• Direction of the current from the generator charges twice with each revolution
• Alternating current → electricity produced by AC generator because it changes direction or alternates
• In North America, generators turn at a controlled speed, provides alternate current which changing direction 120 times per second
• On a graph, current has a wave shape, 60 complete waves per second → 60hz or 60 cycle AC
• Generators produce alternating currents → called generators
• Car electrical systems often use alternator to generate AC
• AC converted to direct current for motor’s ignition system 

Why do most power plants produce alternating current rather than direct current?

• It is easy to increase or decrease voltage of alternating current
• To travel long distances efficiently through transmission lines → voltage increased
• For consumer use, voltage must be decreased
• Process involves transformers
   

 

DC Generators:

• Generators can also produce direct current (DC), or current in only one direction. 
• A generator that produces direct current is often called a dynamo. In a dynamo, the armature, a rotating loop of wire, is connected to the outside circuit by a split-ring commutator. 
• Produced current in pulses
• Batteries produce smooth, continuous current 
• To visualize how the commutator operates, study the four parts(Refer to image). 
• The red dot on the armature lets you track its rotation.) 

    

• In position 1 the brushes touch the metal split rings, so electrons flow from and return to the armature. 
• When the armature and commutator rotate to position 2, insulating gaps in the commutator momentarily stop the electric current. 
• As the gaps move past the brushes, current resumes (position 3). At this point, the direction of charge flow in the armature has reversed, but so has the connection through the commutator. 
• As a result, current continues through the load in a constant direction. 
• The same sequence of events repeats continuously as the armature keeps rotating past position 4.

Electric Motors: Electric to Mechanical Energy

• Motor can be constructed exactly the same way as a generator 
• Motor uses electric energy to make a coil of wire spin between the poles of a magnet (the “field magnet”), instead of producing electricity.
• Happens because the coil (armature) is connected to a source of electricity energy
• Current flowing through the coil turns it into an electromagnet, which is rotated by magnetic forces from the field magnet.
• The fundamental law of all magnets — opposite poles attract and like poles repel — is the basis upon which electric motors function

DC Motors:

• Motors convert electrical energy to mechanical energy with help of magnets
• DC are one type of motors
• Used in toys, appliances, radio controlled cars/bats
• Powered by battery, electrical current and magnetic fields make motor’s armature (rotor) rotate continuously
• Circuit activated
• Electrons run from negative to positive (convention → electricity going from positive to negative)
• Charged particles in electric current create magnetic field around them
• Copper coil is the armature, current creates a magnetic field around coil
• When current passed through coil, it is an electromagnet (has north and south pole)
• Horseshoe magnet provides external magnetic field; positioned so that rotor is right in the middle of magnet’s field
• When current run through armature, magnetic field forms around it
• Field around coil opposes field of horseshoe magnet
• Horseshoe-magnet’s north pole attracts south pole of electromagnet in the armature (two magnetic fields oppose or attract others at several points)

 

Design:

• Two forces into machine does a lot of work
• Current runs through armature, passes through graphite brushes, then through one of the two semi-circles which make up commuter (rotary electrical switch, made of copper, has two gaps)  
• The commuter used to make DC motor work

 

• Has no gaps
• Bar magnet represents the magnetic field generated in coil
• Interacting magnetic field causes the amatrue to move, only to the point where their fields align north to south, they stay opposite attracting opposite
• One half of commuter connects one arm to armature, other half connects to arm
• Current enters first arm, coil spins
• Commuter reaches halfway point of first cycle, brush reaches first gap
• Jumps gap, makes contact with other half of commuter, sends current through other arm of armature
• Because of this, current sent through coil in opposite direction
• Reverses polarity of electromagnet created by powered armature  
• Opposites attract, likes repel, armature turns another half rotation
• Magnetic fields keep rotor spinning as long as current supplied

 

• Found in home appliances, automobiles, industrial equipment
• Provides magnetic field; armature (rotating part) is a coil
• Armature connected to DC power source through commuter rings
• Current flows through coil  → electromagnetic force induced on it (Lorentz Law) coil rotates
• As coil rotates, commuter rings connect with power source of opposite polarity 
• Left side of coil electricity flows away; right side electricity flows towards
• Ensures torque action, same direction throughout motion, coil continues rotating
• More smoother loops, smoother rotation
• Armature loops fitted inside slots of steel layers 00> enhances flux interaction
• Spring loaded commuter brushes → maintains contact with power source 
• Stator pole used for small DC motors
• Electromagnet used
• Field coil of electromagnet powered from same DC source
• Field coil can be connected to rotor windings: parallel or series
• Universal motor can run in AC and DC power sources
   

• Common design for DC motors, a rotating wire coil (an armature) becomes an electromagnet as current flows into it through a split ring commutator.
• The armature is attracted and repelled by stationary field magnets near it, so it begins to rotate. 
• The commutator acts as a switch, cutting off and then reversing the direction of current flow to keep the armature turning.

Image (a)

• electrons flow to the right from the battery to the commutator into the armature 
• the north pole of the armature is repelled by the top of the field magnet and attracted by the bottom of the field magnet 
• the armature begins to rotate clockwise (the yellow dot lets you follow the rotation)

Image (b)

• the commutator cuts off the current so the armature does not stall as it passes close by the field magnets 
• The momentum of the spinning armature keeps it moving clockwise

Image (c)

• the commutator reverses the direction of current through the armature 
• the ends of the armature reverse their magnetic polarity 
• the top of the armature is again repelled by the top of the field magnet and attracted by the bottom of the field magnet  
• the force on the armature continues to rotate it clockwise

 

Conversion Between Motion and Electricity:

• Electrical generators convert mechanical energies into electrical energies. 
  • People convert energy by clapping our hands together. When we clap our hands, we move them toward each other; that motion is mechanical energy. Make a clapping noise; this is sound energy. So by clapping our hands, we convert mechanical energy into sound energy, a simple form of energy conversion.
• To convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, the generator must include several materials.
  • Need some metal wire. While almost all metal wires will work, some work better than others. Copper wire is great because it has a large amount of free electrons, these carry the electricity at a steady flow through the wire.
  • We also need some very strong magnets. We will use that field to move our electrons along the wire.
  • We need force to create mechanical energy, which we will convert into electrical energy.

 

• Placing our magnets close to each other and letting their magnetic poles attract one another, but not allowing the magnets to pull completely together, we create a strong magnetic field. Now if we take a single piece of copper wire and move it through the magnetic field between the magnets, then this action causes electricity to flow through the copper wire by rapidly moving the wire's electrons.
• The electrons in the wire have their own magnetic fields around each of them, and when they come into contact with the strong magnetic fields of our magnets, they attempt to pull together. But because the strong magnets are stabilized and don't move, the electrons in the copper wire move toward the strong magnets, creating an electron flow(electricity)
• To make electrical energy, the generator needs a magnetic field and a moving wire to come together. The movement of the wire through the magnetic field is mechanical energy. The force of the two coming together makes the electrons start to flow in the copper wire, thus converting the energy into electricity.

 

Elecric Motor and Generators Differences

• generator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy
• electrical motor, which converts electrical energy into mechanical energy.
• The generator and the vacuum (or any other device powered by a motor) may serve different functions, they are actually two sides of the same coin. 
• In an electrical motor, the input is electricity and the output is mechanical power. Contrary to this, a generator takes mechanical power and outputs electricity. 
• In both cases, electricity is flowing - just in a different direction
• Electromagnetic induction, discovered by Michael Faraday, is when a voltage is induced by a changing magnetic field. 
• With electromagnetic induction, an electric current can be produced in a coil of wire by moving a magnet in or out of that coil, or by moving the coil through the magnetic field. Either way, voltage is created through motion.
• The amount of voltage induced depends on the number of loops in the coil of wire, as well as the speed at which the magnet is moved through the coil. A greater number of coils means a greater amount of voltage is induced.
• The faster the magnet is moved through the coil, the more voltage you get.
• A generator produces electricity by rotating a coil in a stationary magnetic field, and in a motor, a current is passed through a coil, which forces it to spin
• Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction is employed, allowing you to produce electricity in your house 
• You can't just take a generator and turn it into a motor by 'reversing' the components of the machine. Likewise, with an electric motor you can't just flip a switch that makes the components operate in reverse to produce electricity. Instead, what you have to change is the direction the electricity flows: inward for a motor and outward for a generator.
• alternating current alternates direction as it flows through a circuit. In contrast, direct current does not change direction as it flows through a circuit.
• The type of current utilized in the device depends on whether you are efficient or cost.
• AC motors and generators are more efficient, but also cost more. Most of the electronics you use, like your cell phone and tablet, rely on AC power because of its efficiency. Most hybrid and electric cars also use alternating current.

 

• Edison was a strong proponent of DC, Tesla supported the use of AC. Both were head-strong, determined individuals, and the conflict between the two. Eventually, because AC is better for sending large amounts of energy over long distances, it triumphed as the winner of this 'current battle.' Today, your home, office and most other buildings are wired for AC as a result.

Edison vs Tesla: DC or AC

• Edison created innovations (telegraphy, movie camera, phonograph, light bulb), held over 1000 patents, known by everyone
• Created power system: generating electricity, delivering to customers, to power lightbulb
• Edison’s system
• Steam engine used to drive generator, creating direct current electricity
• Steam engine field with cool, wood, or oil
• EX. Steam controlled by valve system, drives piston back and forth, connecting rod from piston connects to crankshaft, device converts swaying (oscillating) motion of piston to rotary motion, turning flywheel, the valve controls speed of engine
• Generator: Permanent magnets surround coils of wire, coils rotate around magnetic field, inducing flow of electricity
• Edison’s generators produces DC (direct current) → Flow of charged particles (usually electrons) travel in same direction from one terminal to another in a generator, through the load, and then through the other terminal of battery 
•  Battery cells produce DC, direct current as the electrons flow from minus to plus
• Edison knew there was a large market for electric light
• Problem: Electricity lost energy as it traveled through wires (didn’t solve this)
• When wire was more than 2 km long, no electrical energy current was left in wire
• Line loss: when line exceeded 2 km, and power was lost (customers had to be within 2km)

 

• Nikola Tesla came up with solution
• P=I(squared) x R → power lost when current flows in wire = resistance of wire times current squared
• “I” represents current, measured in amperes. Resistance measured in ohms, power in watts
• Most power loss releases as heat, wire gets warm
• Resistance in conductor is a factor in line loss but current affects line loss exponentially (IxI)
• If current reduced without reducing power, it would solve the problem → R = v / I → v / I substituted for R in Joule’s law → P = IV (final product)
• The fact above means that “low voltage and high current” produces same power as “high voltage and low current” 
•  Ex. 100 amps x 10 volts = 1000 watts of power
• 2 amps x 500 volts = 1000 volts → advantage of small current traveling in wire
• Edison knew higher voltages lower currents would solve the problem, but high voltages were dangerous
• Tesla wanted to replace DC with AC but Edison rejected it
• AC doesn't flow in same direction, changes direction back and forth, has special type of generator with different properties
• When the currents alternate back and forth produces electromagnetic radiation, which can induce current (rate flow) flow, but unconnected conductors
• To address the problem above, Tesla creates a device which would beagle to change voltage and current in electronic system → TRANSFORMER
   

Transformer

• Because of this device, electricity could be delivered over hundreds of kilometers using “high voltage low current” transmission
• Lower current reduces line loss
• Wires carrying higher voltage suspended on towers at a safe height
• The transformer converted electricity back to a less dangerous low voltage, with higher current for use in homes and industries
• Short distance from transformer to home meanest that line loss from higher current was minimized
• Edicosn tried to discredit Tesla (public electrocution of animals to prove AC unsafe) because his DC systems were taken over by Tesla’s AC 

 

Advantages and DIsadvantage of AC and DC:

X	Advantages	Disadvantages
AC	The first advantage AC power has over DC is in power transmission. it had to be efficiently transmitted over great distances. Hydroelectric power was an early favorite, and suitable water power sources were sometimes hundreds of miles away from the destination. Using transformers, it is easy to boost AC voltage to these high levels and then reverse the process at the consumer end. DC voltage does not work in a transformer.  AC's next advantage is in power generation. AC generator, which was a simple design made practical by Westinghouse. AC also has an advantage when it comes to power consumption. nother big advantage for AC is wireless, which would not be possible otherwise. All wireless communication uses a carrier, which is an electromagnetic wave that oscillates at a very high frequency and is transmitted and received through an antenna. This wave propagates through space for short distances, such as with Wi-Fi, cellular, etc.	It is less dangerous than DC but more attractive. Working with AC is much more dangerous than DC at high voltage. AC cannot be used in processes such as electrorefining, electroplating etc. Battery cannot be charged directly from AC.
DC	DC has the advantage in portability. Anything that needs to be powered by a battery will usually be DC, not AC. Battery technology has vastly improved, from the button cells that can power a digital watch for years to the high energy, rechargeable automobile batteries that power today's electric vehicles DC is also better for speed control. Three-phase and single-phase AC motors do not have a practical means for controlling speed. Finally, DC works better with some green technologies. Solar cells and fuel cells are examples of green power generators that convert other forms of energy to DC power.	DC machines required brushes and commutators to operate, thus increasing complexity and maintenance

 

 Electromagnetism:

 

Generator:

 

Electromagnet

1. Have a transformer core with only the primary coil intact (thicker coil) 

2. Attach a power supply of which you can change the output current 

3. Attach its polarities (+ or -) to either end of the electromagnet 

4. Gradually increase the current and attach any metal object to it and see how strong it is to take off

5. Grab the weight meter/hand held scale and attach it to the hooked metal plate 

6. Start pulling it until it comes off and record how much weight it took 

Materials:

• Transformer core with only primary coils attached
• Power supply or a source to power the magnet (the power supply must have the ability to change its current)
• Metal plate that has a hook 
• A hand held scale (pounds and/or kg)

Generator

1. Have the generator ready

2. Have a multi meter attached to the two terminals of the generator on either AC or DC

3. Gradually spin the crank faster and record the data 

Materials:

• A multi meter with both AC and DC voltage readings
• Bridge rectifier 
• Transformer to step up the AC voltage 
• Wires 
• Hot glue
• Cut out ring from extandable antenna (slip ring commuator)
• Spring for brushes 
• Metal rod for axial 
• Barrings 
• Two coils of different lengths but almost same amount of turns 
• A belt and gear system 
• Two round magnets 
• String to rap around the coils

Magnetism

Generators

As we increased the current the amount of strength to take off the plate increased. We  experimented with the scale but also numerous metal objects, the same had happened.  While carrying various weights, we noted that the electromagnet's magnetic field strength varied depending on the amount of current passing through it.  By manipulating the voltage while keeping the current constant, we observed changes in the electromagnet's magnetic field strength. Higher voltages consistently led to stronger magnetic fields, demonstrating the direct relationship between voltage and magnetic intensity. After testing we had touched the coil and it had felt warm.

As we spun the crank faster and faster the voltage began to increase. We managed to get about 25 volts by using our step up transformer.  When powering light bulbs and various loads, we noticed that the generator produced different levels of electrical output depending on the speed we spun it at. Increasing the rotational speed of the generator's coil resulted in a proportional increase in both current and voltage outputs. We noticed that the lightbulb flickers when we used AC current and when we use DC Current the lightbulb didn’t flicker.  The fan only worked on DC current

 

Data recorded from our expiement for is located in the "Attachments". File Name:  science_fair_data_SiYuusi.pdf

 

After Conducting our expirement we got the results:

Electromagnetism:

Table and Graph for this part are located in the "Attachments". File Name:  science_fair_data_SiYuusi.pdf

We got these results because 

The force to remove an object from an electromagnet increases as you increase the current flowing through it due to the fundamental relationship between current and magnetic field strength.

When an electric current flows through a wire, it creates a magnetic field around the wire according to Ampère's law. This magnetic field interacts with any nearby magnetic materials, such as ferromagnetic objects like iron, creating a force on them.

The strength of this magnetic field, and consequently the force it exerts on nearby objects, is directly proportional to the current flowing through the wire. 

So, when you increase the current flowing through the electromagnet, you increase the strength of the magnetic field it produces. As a result, the force exerted on any nearby magnetic objects, such as the object being held by the electromagnet, also increases.

 

Generators: 

Table and Graph for this part are located in the "Attachments". File Name:  science_fair_data_SiYuusi.pdf

We got these results because
In a generator, the generation of voltage is governed by Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. This law states that a changing magnetic field induces an electromotive force (EMF) in a conductor. When you spin the generator faster, you are effectively increasing the rate at which the magnetic field passing through the coils of wire changes. This increased rate of change of the magnetic field induces a higher voltage across the terminals of the generator.

When you spin the generator faster, you're essentially causing the coil to cut through the magnetic field more rapidly. This results in a faster rate of change of the magnetic flux through the coil, which in turn induces a higher voltage. Mathematically, the induced voltage (EMF) is directly proportional to the rate of change of the magnetic flux, which is directly related to the rotational speed of the generator.

In conclusion, our experiments aimed to show the workings of electromagnetism and generators, and we're happy to say that our hypotheses have been confirmed through our investigations. By experimenting with the manipulation of current and voltage in electromagnets, we've discovered a direct relationship between these variables and the strength of the resulting magnetic fields. Essentially, increasing the flow of electricity through an electromagnet leads to a directly proportional increase in the intensity of its magnetic field, while reducing the current or voltage weakens magnetic strength. This finding not only confirms fundamental principles of electromagnetism but also shows us the practical applications of this in various technologies, from MRI machines to electric motors.

Similarly, our experiment into generators had results consistent with our hypotheses. By increasing the rotational speed of the generator's coil, we observed a corresponding rise in both current and voltage output. This direct correlation between rotational speed and electrical output emphasizes the significant role of generators in converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. Moreover, it highlights the scalability of this relationship, demonstrating how adjustments in rotational speed can be changed to meet different power demands in real-world applications.

Our project isn't just about experiments, it's about showing how science can be hands-on and practical. By confirming our ideas through experimentation, we've expanded our understanding of electromagnetism and generators. By sharing what we've learned, we're helping others see the amazing ways science impacts our lives and how we can use this in real world applications.
 

Electomagnetism:

Electromagnets and generators are super useful in many ways. One way is in medical machines like MRI scanners. These machines use strong electromagnets to take detailed pictures inside our bodies. It helps doctors see what's going on inside without surgery. Electromagnets are also used in trains. Electric trains and maglev trains both use them to move smoothly and quickly. Electromagnets push these trains forward and even make them float above the tracks, cutting down on friction. Cutting down friction will stop excess charge to build up (triboelectric effect). Electromagnets allow maglev trains to float above the rail. The rails that the train floats above are magnetized using electromagnets and the bottom of the train is equipped with large magnets.  Two magnets can either attract or repel each other, depending on how the magnets are placed By setting up the magnets to repel each other, they keep the train floating above the track.  By controlling the amount of electricity running into the rail, they can control the placement and movement of the train.

Other Applications of Electromagnetism:

1. Motors and generators use electromagnets to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy (motors) or mechanical energy to electrical energy (generators)
2. Transformers utilize electromagnets to transfer electrical energy between circuits, important for stepping up or stepping down voltage levels in power distribution systems.
3. Electric bells and buzzers rely on electromagnets to produce sound by vibrating a metal striker against a bell or buzzer plate when an electrical current (electromagnet) is applied.
4. Loudspeakers and headphones utilize electromagnets to convert electrical signals into sound waves, allowing for audio playback in various devices.
5. Actuators like valves use electromagnets to control the flow of fluids or gases in machinery or industrial processes.
6. Magnetic recording technologies, such as hard drives and magnetic tapes, rely on electromagnets to store digital data by magnetizing particles on a magnetic medium.
7. Mass spectrometers use electromagnets to separate ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio, enabling precise analysis of chemical compounds.
8. Magnetic locks utilize electromagnets to secure doors or gates by attracting a metal armature when energized, providing controlled access in security systems.
9. Magnetic separation equipment uses electromagnets to separate magnetic materials from non-magnetic substances in various industries, such as mining and recycling.
10. Industrial lifting magnets utilize electromagnets to lift and move heavy objects safely and efficiently in manufacturing and construction settings. Also used in scarp yards.

Generators:

Generators are used in many everyday situations to make electricity. For example, during power outages or emergencies, portable generators keep homes, hospitals, and businesses running smoothly. Construction sites and remote areas also rely on generators to power tools and equipment. In industries, generators act as backup power sources to prevent interruptions in production and protect machinery. 

Other Applications of Generators:

1. Emergencies: Generators ensure essential services keep running during crises like natural disasters.
2. Routine power outages: They act as a backup power source to prevent disruptions in homes and businesses.
3. Camping: Generators power lights, cooking appliances, and electronic devices in outdoor settings.
4. Construction: Essential for running tools and machinery on job sites without access to the electrical grid.
5. Mining: They provide power for heavy machinery in remote mining locations.
6. Agriculture: Generators drive irrigation systems and other farm equipment crucial for crop production.
7. Night working: Power from generators allows safe and efficient work during nighttime hours.
8. Fairs: Generators power rides, food stalls, and entertainment at outdoor events. It is important here because if a ride is going and there is a power outage they need a generator to bring the passangers down
9. Sporting events: They provide electricity for stadium lighting, sound systems, and electronic scoreboards.
10. Weddings: Essential for outdoor ceremonies and receptions, providing power for lighting, music, and catering equipment.

Magnetisim and Generators:

1. Power Supply Variations: Fluctuations in the power supply can affect the strength of the magnetic field produced by the electromagnet. Variations in voltage or current can lead to inconsistencies in the experimental results.
2. Calibration Issues: Inaccuracies in the calibration of measuring instruments such as ammeters and voltometers can lead to incorrect readings of current, voltage, or magnetic field strength.
3. Temperature Effects: Changes in temperature can affect the resistance of the wire in the electromagnet, leading to variations in the current flowing through it.  Temperature changes can influence the magnetic properties of the materials used in the experiment.
4. Alignment and Positioning: Incorrect positioning or alignment of components of the experiment such as the electromagnet, magnetic field sensor, or the object being tested can lead to inaccurate measurements of magnetic field strength or interactions.
5. Friction and Mechanical Errors: In experiments involving moving parts or adjustments, friction or mechanical errors can introduce inconsistencies in the results. For example, in experiments involving the movement of magnets or electromagnets, friction can affect the force exerted.
6. Magnetic Material Properties: Variations in the properties of magnetic materials used in the experiment can affect the result of the electromagnet and the objects being tested.
7. Human Error: Errors in measurement reading, recording, or experimental setup can occur due to human factors such as misinterpretation of readings, improper handling of equipment, or procedural mistakes. the most major error that had occured was the speed rate of which we spun the crank on the generator.

 

When recording our data for the generator and strength of magnetic field we had some errors such as, the rough calculations for the electromagnet as we did not have the right meter to measure its strength so we had calculated it by using a weight unit (lbs). for the generator we could not spin it perfectly at a constent speed and had been counting how many turns it would be.

Basic Electronics Course By Norman H. Crowhurst (book)

Britannica -  Electromagnetism | https://www.britannica.com/science/electromagnetism (website) 

Circuit Basics | https://www.circuitbasics.com/what-is-electromagnetism/ (website)

Electronics Tutorials - Electromagnetism | https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/  (website)

WatElectrical - AC Generator | https://www.watelectrical.com/ac-generator-construction-working-applications/ (website)

Science Focus 9 By Barry Edgar  -  Unit 4, Topic 6, Pages 309-317 (textbook)

Sci Show - How Michael Faraday Changed the World with a Magnet  | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32_3Um3a6  5s (video) 

CrashCourse - Magnetism: Crash Course Physics #32 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s94suB5uLWw (video)  

Research Channel - How Magnets Produce Electricity | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xhqMDMMgz0 (video)

Study.com - Tammie Mihet - Electromagnets Lesson for Kids: Definition, Facts & Uses | https://study.com/academy/lesson/electromagnets-lesson-for-kids-definition-facts-uses.html (video)

Study.com - Lori Houston - How Does an Electric Generator Work? | https://study.com/academy/lesson/electromagnets-lesson-for-kids-definition-facts-uses.html (video)

Study.com - Motor vs. Generator | Mechanism & Energy Conversion | https://study.com/academy/lesson/electric-motors-generators-converting-between-electrical-and-chemical-energy.html (video)

DC Motors - DC Motor, How it works? - Lesics | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAtPHANEfQo (video)

Science in Action 9 By Kristen Mah - Unit D | http://standring.weebly.com/uploads/2/3/3/5/23356120/unit_d__electricity.pdf (textbook)

Arvin Ash - What is electricity? How does it work? Nikola Tesla's AC vs DC | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ag6ltdwqfms (video)

Study.com - Coralie Nettles - Alternating Current | AC Definition, Advantages & Uses | https://study.com/learn/lesson/alternating-current-advantages-uses.html (video)

Linkedin - Features, Advantages, Disadvantages Of Alternating Current -  Md Mukter (Electrical Engineer) | https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/features-advantages-disadvantages-alternating-current-md-mukter-xmnbf (Article) (website)

Sparkfun - Alternating Current (AC) vs. Direct Current (DC) - SHAWN HYMEL  https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/alternating-current-ac-vs-direct-current-dc/all

Wikepedia - Electric Generator | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_generator (article) (website)

Wikepedia - Electromagnet | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electromagnet (article) (website)

Universe Today - What Are The Uses Of Electromagnets? | https://www.universetoday.com/39295/uses-of-electromagnets/ (website)

Briticanna - Electromagnet | https://www.britannica.com/science/electromagnet (website)

World Wilde Power Products - When And Where Are Generators Used? 14 Examples | https://www.wpowerproducts.com/blog/generator-applications/14-practical-uses-for-generators/ (website)

How stuff works - How Electromagnets Work - By: Marshall Brain, Chris Pollette & Yara Simón  |  https://science.howstuffworks.com/electromagnet.htm (article) (website)

Open Ai - 2024 - Used for research on electric generators

We would like to express our gratitude for a Grade 9 Balmoral School Student Hasan Musafa who provided our group with advice, suggestions and improvements for our science fair project

We are also very thankful for the unwavering support of Ms. Onkto (Balmoral Teacher) for enganging and allowing us to ask clarfying questions and giving us the oppurtuinty to partcipate in the Calgary Youth Science Fair (CYSF)

We are grateful for our famillies providing us with the motivation to do this project