The Magnetism Suite [Virtual Lab Experiments and PhET]

There were several electromagnetism lab activities that I transformed into remote teaching/distance learning (RT;DL), Zoom/breakout-roomable activities. I have upgraded those Google Docs (and added answer keys) and posted them to The Lessons of Phyz at Teachers Pay Teachers.

For the most part, the student instructions remain much as what they would have been for the in-person classroom lab activity. But the observations have been filmed and the videoclips sequenced for remote instruction logistics.

A C T I V I T I E S

Seeing Magnetic Fields [Virtual Lab Experiment]

This is a series of observations involving different configurations of permanent bar magnets. A Magnetic Field Projectual (designed to be used on the stage of an overhead projector). For in-person instruction, each group is given a projectual and two soft-iron bar magnets (freshly remagnetized in our “trusty” magnetizer).

Ørsted's Discovery [Virtual Lab Experiment]

In this sequence of observations, the magnetic field around a current-carrying wire is investigated. Using batteries, wires, and compasses, we eventually develop the mnemonic of "The Right Hand Rule" for the direction of that magnetic field.

To keep things a bit more engaging in the engagement-limiting realm of a virtual lab conducted over Zoom, the configurations in some parts of the activity were randomized. That randomization is announced in the observations presentation.

Electric Magnetism [Virtual Lab Experiment]

This activity begins with the exploration of an electromagnet (what works; what doesn’t). Next we look at the flip side of Ørsted’s discovery: a magnetic force is exerted on a current-carrying wire. Then we get into the details of a simple St. Louis motor. And then we connect a battery to a Genecon to see what will happen. Hint: it’s spooky!

Magnetic Electricity [Virtual Lab Experiment+PhET]

In Ørsted’s Discovery and Electric Magnetism, we explored how electric currents produced magnetic fields. In Magnetic Electricity, we explore how magnetic fields can be used to create electric currents. We'll wiggle wires in the maw of a big antique radar magnet, plunge a bar magnet into and out of a solenoid, turn a St. Louis motor into a St. Louis generator, and crank interconnected Genecons to see what happens.

Faraday's Electromagnetic Lab [PDF, Free at PhET]

Manipulate simulated magnets, compasses, and coils to see how magnetic fields interact with electric currents. Students must already know that magnetic fields are directed north to south.