Lab Assignment: Magnetism

Part 1 Electromagnetic Induction
We all use batteries for flashlights, cell phones, and many other devices. We know they deliver energy through electricity. Where do they get their energy?
If you are not sure, watch the first video listed in the assignment:

Briefly explain where a battery gets its energy.

The car battery can be recharged while the motor is running because of the alternator.
If you are not sure what an alternator is or how it works, watch the second video listed in the assignment: How Automotive Alternators Work, made simple

An alternator drives current through the battery to recharge it. What kind of device is it and where does it get the energy that is carried by the current into the battery?

While the alternator is complicated, there is a much simpler version of the same device, sometimes called a pick-up coil. For a simulation of a pick-up coil, activate the simulation after clicking on the third link listed in the assignment: Faraday's Law PhET Simulation. Move the magnet around and notice current flow in the coils.

While the alternator is complicated, there is a much simpler version of the same device, sometimes called a pick-up coil. For a simulation of a pick-up coil, activate the simulation after clicking on the third link listed in the assignment: Faraday's Law PhET Simulation (Links to an external site.). (If the Simulation is not available, use the video showing a real magnet and pick-up coil to answer the questions.)

1) Position the north end of the magnet closest to the right side of the coil. With the magnet at rest, describe the voltmeter reading.

2) Push the north end of the magnet into the coil. Describe the voltmeter reading while the magnet is in motion.