GCSE Physics

The Motor Effect

Place a current-carrying conductor in an external magnetic field (perhaps between two bar magnets), and the fields will push against each other. This force is incredibly important: it is the basis for all electric motors!

Wire ready to carry a current in an external magnetic field

Normally the external field is fixed in place, so the force is only seen to act on the wire: moving it up or down. However, remember that forces come in pairs - the permanent magnets will experience the force too.


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