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Learn: The Motor Effect
AQA GCSE Combined Science specification.
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Welcome!Today we'll learn about the motor effect. This is a key part of electromagnetism and helps explain how electric motors work. Let's break it down step by step!
What is the Motor Effect?The motor effect occurs when a current-carrying wire is placed in a magnetic field. The wire experiences a force due to the interaction between the magnetic field and the field created by the electric current. This principle is vital for understanding how motors generate movement.
Magnetic Fields and Electric CurrentsAn electric current flowing through a wire creates a magnetic field around it. When this wire is placed inside another magnetic field, such as one created by a magnet, the two fields interact. This interaction produces a force, which can move the wire.
Quick check: What causes the motor effect?
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The Role of Magnetic ForceMagnetic force acts on the wire because of the interaction between the two fields. The direction of this force depends on the direction of the current and the orientation of the magnetic field. This relationship is described by Fleming's Left-Hand Rule.
Fleming's Left-Hand RuleFleming's Left-Hand Rule helps determine the direction of the force acting on the wire. Point your thumb, first finger, and second finger at right angles to each other. The thumb shows the direction of the force, the first finger shows the direction of the magnetic field, and the second finger shows the direction of the current.
Which finger in Fleming's Left-Hand Rule represents the current?
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How Force is GeneratedThe force is strongest when the wire is perpendicular to the magnetic field. If the wire is parallel to the field, no force is experienced. This is why motors are designed to maximise the interaction between the wire and the magnetic field.
The motor effect occurs when a {{blank0}}-carrying wire is placed in a {{blank1}} field.
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Applications of the Motor EffectThe motor effect is used in devices like electric motors, loudspeakers, and even rail systems like maglev trains. These applications depend on the force generated by the interaction between magnetic fields and currents.
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Review Time!Great work! You've learned about the motor effect and its applications. Now let's test your understanding with a few questions.
Which of the following are true about the motor effect? (Select all that apply)
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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What is the force direction when the wire is perpendicular to the field?
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