The electric motor is likely not functioning due to a metallic axle that may be shorting the copper wires connected to the rotor and battery. The rotor has insufficient turns, with hundreds of turns recommended for better performance. Additionally, the rotor lacks a ferromagnetic core, which is essential for concentrating magnetic flux and enhancing motor operation. The internal resistance of the 6-volt lantern batteries is about 1 ohm, causing significant voltage drop when the motor runs, and using smaller diameter wire with more turns is advised. A 9-volt battery is also unsuitable due to its higher internal resistance, further impacting performance.