Question

State four uses of electromagnets.

Answer 1

Hint: Recall the working principle of electromagnet. Electromagnet works on the principle of induced magnetic field due to current in the coil. This enables the electromagnet to use in many electric and mechanical devices.

Complete step by step answer:
To answer this question we need to understand what electromagnet is. The electromagnet has not a permanent magnetism but it’s the magnetic field generated in the loop of wire due to current flowing through it. Unlike permanent magnets, the strength of the magnetic field in the electromagnet can be varied as desired by changing the current in the loop. The polarity of the electromagnets can be changed by changing the direction of current.

We know that when the electron or proton is released in the uniform electric and magnetic field, the electromagnetic force acts on it. This force may be repulsive or attractive depending on the charge of the particle. Therefore, using this principle, the electromagnet can be used as a powerful tool for lifting heavy objects in the automobile industry.

Unlike permanent magnets, we know that electromagnet can be switched ON and OFF. Therefore, the doctors use electromagnet to remove tiny metal objects accidentally fallen into the eyes. Also, we know that electromagnet is used in MRI machines to scan the tiny details of the human body.

Devices like loudspeakers, door bells, electric motors, generators and electric fans are constructed using electromagnets.

We know that mobile phones and telephones use electromagnet for communication. Loudspeakers and headphones have electromagnet in them. Also, electromagnets are used as relays and actuators such as valves.

Note:
We know that the electromagnet can be switched OFF whenever necessary and the polarity of the electromagnet can also be reversed. This advantage of electromagnet makes electromagnet more prominent than the use of permanent magnets.