Question

The metal that finds use in electro - magnet is _______.
1. Zinc
2. Soft iron
3. Copper
4. Chromium

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : Soft iron

The correct answer is Soft iron.

• Electromagnets consist of coils, usually copper wrapped tightly around a laminated core of ferromagnetic material (soft iron, steel, cobalt).
  • Electromagnets require a refrigeration system, generally water, to dispose of heat produced by the dissipated electricity.
    
•  Electromagnets are made from a coil of copper wire wound around a core made from iron, nickel or cobalt.
  • The coiled wire will generate a magnetic field when an electric current passes through it, however, the magnetic field disappears the moment the current stops.
• When an electric current flows in a wire, it creates a magnetic field around the wire. This effect can be used to make an electromagnet.
  • A simple electromagnet comprises a length of wire turned into a coil and connected to a battery or power supply.
  • Wrapping the coil around a piece of iron (such as an iron nail
• 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.