The generator effect
I can describe how different factors affect the size and direction of an induced current or potential.
The generator effect
I can describe how different factors affect the size and direction of an induced current or potential.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A magnet moving relative to a wire connected in a complete circuit can cause a current to flow in the wire.
- A magnet moving in the opposite direction relative to a wire induces a current in the opposite direction.
- A magnet moving relative to a wire can cause a potential difference across the wire called the induced potential.
- Induced potential is proportional to mag. field strength and the relative speed of movement between a wire and a magnet.
- For a magnet moving relative to a coil, the induced potential is proportional to the number of turns of wire in a coil.
Keywords
Induced current - The current generated in a circuit moving relative to a magnetic field.
Generator effect - The effect of inducing a current by the relative movement of a circuit and a magnetic field.
Milliammeter - A sensitive ammeter able to measure thousandths of an amp.
Induced potential - The potential difference generated in a conductor moving relative to a magnetic field.
Common misconception
Magnets can attract or repel electric charges in a wire.
Explain that the cause of induced current is complex and is usually taught to students studying physics at university. At this point it is sufficient to be able to describe and predict what happens when a conductor is moving in a magnetic field.
To help you plan your year 11 physics lesson on: The generator effect, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 physics lesson on: The generator effect, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 physics lessons from the Electromagnetism unit, dive into the full secondary physics curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Demonstrate equipment to show induced potential or current on sensitive meters when moving magnets relative to coils of wire and/or wires relative to strong magnetic fields.
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
