What does an MRI machine have to do with a slinky? This activity challenges learners to run a current through a slinky and use a magnetic field sensor to measure the magnetic field. Groups then change the length of the slinky to see the differences in the magnetic fields generated.

Concepts

magnetic fields, magnets, magnetic resonance imaging, technology resources

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Instructional Ideas

• Adjust the current and measure the the magnetic field at different settings

Classroom Considerations

• The activity uses Vernier magnetic field sensors
• The reusable equipment can be expensive
• The activity is the ninth in a 14-part series

Pros

• The handout provides a schematic on how to set up the equipment
• The activity has the pupils write a lab report, a great practice

Cons

• None

Common Core

HSS-ID.B.6.c HSS-ID.C.7 MP4