Audio speakers, hard drives, credit cards, and even the earth use magnetic fields. While we observe the effect of magnetic fields, we can't actually see them. A viewer helps participants explore magnetic fields, some of the items that change the strength of a field, and other variables.

Concepts

electromagnetism, electromagnetic energy, magnetic fields

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Discuss why we test for the magnetic field with iron filings rather than another metal

Classroom Considerations

• Requires the help of a machine shop to create some components
• Use caution when drilling through the acrylic, as it cracks easily

Pros

• Brings concepts from the textbook to life
• Once built, the device lasts for many years

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.6.2 SL.7.2 SL.8.2 SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2 RST.6-8.3 RST.9-10.3 RST.11-12.3