What is Electromagnetism and Electric Motors? | Definition, Types, Formula & Examples

What is Electromagnetism?

The word “electromagnetism” in physics is used to describe one of the fundamental forces of nature. This force lies between subatomic particles such as protons and electrons. It helps hold matter together.

Electromagnetism is also used to describe how a magnetic field is created by an electric current. We will discuss this type of electromagnetic on this page.

What is Electromagnet?

When an electron flows through a conductor, it creates a magnetic field. This is an important concept in electricity. The magnetic field can be increased by winding. This allows more current to flow over a smaller distance and increases the magnetic field.

Right-Hand Rule

When current flows through a conductor, the magnetic field rotates around the conductor. The direction of the current determines the direction of the magnetic field. You can determine the direction of the magnetic field using the “right hand rule”.

To determine the direction of the magnetic field, look at the figure above. Grasp your right hand and point your thumb in the direction of the current (I). Now wrap your fingers around the yarn. Your fingers will point in the direction of rotation of the magnetic field (B).

Motors

One of the important applications of electromagnetism is electric motors. An electric motor converts electrical energy into physical motion. The electric motor generates a magnetic field with current flowing through the coil. The magnetic field then exerts a force with the magnet causing motion or rotation that rotates the motor.

Electric motors are used in all kinds of applications. There are even several electric motors inside your computer, including one to spin the fan, one to open and close the CD-ROM drive, and one to spin the hard drive.

Electromagnetic Induction

Another important application of electromagnetism is induction. Induction is when motion is used to generate electricity (as opposed to using electricity to create motion). When a conductor is moved in a magnetic field, current begins to flow through it.

Generators

Generators convert mechanical energy into electrical energy by induction. When a coil is rotated between two opposing magnets, an electric current is generated which can be used to power electronic devices.

Generators can draw energy from a variety of sources. Two common sources of renewable energy generation are hydroelectricity and wind power.

Interesting Facts about Electromagnetism and Electric Motors

Some generators can be powered by humans, such as cranks or bicycles, to generate electricity.

Danish physicist Hans Orsted was the first to discover that magnetic fields are created by electric currents.

American physicist Joseph Henry discovered electromagnetic inductance and built the first electromagnetic motor.

The speaker uses an electromagnet to vibrate the cone and produce sound.