My electromagnet isn't strong enough. Due tomorrow.

In summary, the student is trying to create an electromagnet to pick up paperclips from a nail. They have attempted different methods, but the wire doesn't seem to be picking up as many paperclips as they expected. They are considering different wire sizes and possibly using a fatter or thicker nail.
  • #1
marier4him
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Homework Statement



Hi, I've been trying to figure this out for days. I've wrapped an insulated wire that I got at Lowe's around a large metal nail. I then connected it to a knife switch and a 9v battery (per the directions). The nail is supposed to pick up 30 paperclips. I've tried wrapping the wire very tightly and more loosely, but nothing helps.

Thanks in advance,

Marie

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF;
In what way does it not work?
i.e. I guess it does not pick up 30 paperclips ... how many does it pick up?

Have you used an ammeter to find the current?
Have you checked the resistance of the wire?
Is the nail iron or steel or some other metal?
 
  • #3
It's only picking up 6 paperclips. I don't know how to check the resistance of the wire and I don't have an ammeter. The nail is 6" and steel. How much of the of the nail should be covered with the windings?
 
  • #4
and thanks for trying to help.
 
  • #5
It's OK I had to step out for a bit.

You want to fit as many windings on the nail as you can ... more windings = more magnetism.
The nail has to be made of iron for best effect.

Does the battery get warm?

It is impossible to be exact without meters.
You can pick up a multimeter for a few dollars these days - it will do everything.
If you are going to mess with anything electronic you must have one: essential tool.
 
  • #6
The battery gets very warm almost hot. I've tried an insulated wire with a solid copper core a little tough to wind, but doable. I also tried an insulated copper wire made of strands. I don't think our big box stores sell iron nails. I covered almost the whole nail in windings.
 
  • #7
Sounds like the wire you are using is too fat.
Try thin wire.
 
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  • #8
I tried the thin wire first, but I'll rewrap and try again. Maybe the windings weren't tight enough.
 
  • #9
Maybe a fatter nail?
Thinner wire means you can fit more turns on it.
You could try overlapping windings - going back and forth up and down the nail.
 

FAQ: My electromagnet isn't strong enough. Due tomorrow.

1. Why isn't my electromagnet strong enough?

There could be several reasons why your electromagnet isn't strong enough. It could be due to insufficient voltage, not enough windings in the coil, or the core material may not be suitable for creating a strong magnetic field.

2. How can I make my electromagnet stronger?

There are a few ways to make your electromagnet stronger. You can increase the voltage, add more windings to the coil, and use a core material with a higher magnetic permeability. You can also try using a larger battery or power supply to increase the current flowing through the coil.

3. Can I use any type of wire for my electromagnet?

No, not all wires are suitable for creating electromagnets. It is important to use a wire with a high conductivity, such as copper or aluminum. The wire should also have a thin diameter to allow for more windings in the coil.

4. What is the best core material for creating a strong electromagnet?

The best core material for creating a strong electromagnet is one with a high magnetic permeability, such as iron or steel. These materials are able to concentrate the magnetic field and make it stronger. However, keep in mind that the type of material used may also depend on the purpose of the electromagnet and the level of magnetism needed.

5. Can I make my electromagnet stronger by increasing the current?

Yes, increasing the current flowing through the coil can make the electromagnet stronger. This is because the strength of the magnetic field is directly proportional to the current. However, be careful not to exceed the maximum current capacity of your wire and power supply, as this can cause overheating and potentially damage your electromagnet.

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