Does the Number of Coils on an Electromagnet Affect Its Strength

Does the number of coils on an electromagnet affect its strength?

Materials:

1 non-galvanized nail “D” size battery

1 long wire Battery holder

Paper clips (small/large)

Procedure:

1. Create an electromagnet by wrapping the wire around the nail and attaching each end of the wire to the battery. (Caution- the ends of the battery holder may get warm.)

2. Make a hypothesis stating whether or not the number of coils wrapped around the nail will make a difference in the electromagnets strength. (Write this prediction on your foldable.)

3. Begin testing your hypothesis by wrapping only 3 coils of wire around the nail. Try to pick up a small paper clip. Document your results under the column marked “# of paperclips attracted.”

4. Continue to test for strength by adding coils. Mark all results on your foldable.

5. Was your hypothesis correct? Explain under the conclusion section of your sheet.