Objectives

• Explain how magnetism work at the atomic level.
• Create a graph showing how magnetic field strength varies with distance from a magnet.

Instructions

1. Download the simulation Magnet and Compass
2. Now, move the magnet around and write observations about the following in your notebook.
1. What are the little arrows around the magnet?
2. Why are these arrows moving as you move the magnet?
3. Why does the compass move?
4. What color represents north? south 
3. Select "Show Planet Earth."
1. What direction does the compass point?
2. Make an observation about the "magnet" inside earth 
4. Go back to the bar magnet (de-select planet earth), and select "Show Field Meter." READ CAREFULLY. You will make a graph of field strength vs. distance, but there is no ruler tool! So, take measurements starting at one pole and moving out horizonally OR vertically, but not diagonally. Record the field strength (In Gauss, G) at the pole of the magnet, then at each field vector moving away from the magnet. Take at least 5 data points, then draw the graph in your notebook. Title it, label the axes (don't forget units!), and get my initials.

Meeting the Objectives.

Please respond to these on the page you used for the first part of class.

1. Read this page about Ferromagnetism. Now, can you offer a better explanation for how objects become magnetized?
2. Look at the graph you created for magnetic field strength vs. distance. Does this look similar to a graph that we did recently? Explain!
3. What is one other piece of evidence you have for the connection between electricity and magnetism.