Physics Project
**Topic**: Magnetism
**Name**: Subham Kumar
**Roll Number**: 25
**Class & Section**: IX
**School**: St. Thomas School, Kanpur
**Session**: 2025–2026
Index
1. Acknowledgement
2. Introduction to Magnetism
3. Types of Magnets
4. Magnetic Field and Lines of Force
5. Magnetic and Non-Magnetic Materials
6. Electromagnetism
7. Important Laws and Rules
8. Real-Life Applications of Magnetism
9. Case Study – Magnetic Crane
10. Conclusion
11. Bibliography
Acknowledgement
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my Physics teacher for guiding and
supporting me throughout the project on 'Magnetism'. I also thank my parents and
classmates for their continuous encouragement and help. This project has helped me learn
and explore a very interesting and useful topic in Physics.
Introduction to Magnetism
Magnetism is a physical phenomenon produced by the motion of electric charges, which
creates a force called the magnetic force. This force can attract or repel certain materials,
especially iron, nickel, and cobalt.
The word magnet comes from "Magnesia", an ancient Greek city where natural magnets
(lodestones) were first discovered.
Why Magnetism Is Important:
- It is used in many modern devices like fans, hard drives, speakers, and compasses.
- It is a key principle in motors and generators, which are used to produce electricity.
- It helps us understand Earth's magnetic field and how it affects navigation.
Types of Magnets
Natural Magnets:
- Found in nature (example: magnetite).
- Weak magnetic strength.
- Irregular shape.
- Example: Lodestone.
Artificial Magnets:
- Made by magnetizing certain materials.
- Much stronger than natural magnets.
- Can be given specific shapes like:
- Bar magnet
- Horseshoe magnet
- Ring magnet
- Disc magnet
Temporary vs Permanent Magnets:
Type | Characteristics | Example
-------------------|-----------------------------------------------|-----------------------------
Permanent | Retains magnetism for long time | Bar magnet, fridge magnet
Temporary | Loses magnetism when external field is removed| Electromagnet
Magnetic Field and Lines of Force
The magnetic field is the space around a magnet where its magnetic force can be
detected. We cannot see magnetic fields with our eyes, but we can observe them using
iron filings or a compass.
Characteristics of Magnetic Field Lines:
1. Always emerge from the North Pole and enter the South Pole.
2. Form closed loops inside and outside the magnet.
3. Never cross each other.
4. Closer lines mean stronger magnetic field.
5. Are stronger near the poles.
Activity:
Place a bar magnet under a white paper and sprinkle iron filings. Gently tap the paper —
you'll see lines forming around the magnet. These are the magnetic field lines.
Magnetic and Non-Magnetic Materials
Magnetic Materials:
- Attracted by magnets.
- Can become temporary magnets.
- Examples: Iron, Nickel, Cobalt, Steel.
Non-Magnetic Materials:
- Not affected by magnets.
- Cannot be magnetized.
- Examples: Plastic, Rubber, Wood, Paper, Aluminum.
Uses of Magnetic Materials:
- Making electromagnets.
- Manufacturing motors, bells, transformers.
- In electronics and sensors.
Table for Quick Understanding:
Material | Magnetic / Non-Magnetic
--------------|--------------------------
Iron | Magnetic
Wood | Non-Magnetic
Steel | Magnetic
Copper | Non-Magnetic
Nickel | Magnetic
Electromagnetism
Electromagnetism is the interaction of electric currents and magnetic fields. When
electricity flows through a wire, it creates a magnetic field around it. This principle was
discovered by Hans Christian Ørsted in 1820.
How to Make an Electromagnet:
- Take an iron nail.
- Wrap insulated copper wire around it.
- Connect the wire to a battery.
- The nail becomes a magnet when current flows.
Factors that Affect the Strength of an Electromagnet:
1. Number of turns in the coil.
2. Amount of current passed.
3. Material of the core (soft iron is best).
Uses of Electromagnets:
- Electric bells
- Electric motors
- Magnetic cranes
- Relays
- MRI scanners
Important Laws and Rules
Right-Hand Thumb Rule:
If you hold a wire carrying current with your right hand so that the thumb points in the
direction of current, then the curled fingers show the direction of magnetic field.
Fleming’s Left-Hand Rule (for motors):
Used to find the direction of motion in a motor.
- Thumb → Motion
- First Finger → Magnetic Field
- Second Finger → Current
Magnetic Force:
The force experienced by a magnetic material in a magnetic field.
- Magnetic force can attract or repel depending on poles.
- Stronger near the poles.
Earth’s Magnetism:
- Earth behaves like a huge bar magnet.
- It has a magnetic North and South Pole.
- A compass works because it aligns itself with Earth’s magnetic field.
Real-Life Applications of Magnetism
Everyday Applications:
1. Compass – helps sailors and travelers find direction.
2. Speakers – convert electric signals into sound using magnets.
3. Electric Bell – uses an electromagnet to produce sound.
4. MRI Machines – powerful magnets take internal body images.
5. Credit/Debit Cards – contain magnetic strips with data.
6. Maglev Trains – float above tracks using magnetic repulsion.
7. Refrigerator Door Seals – contain magnets to close tightly.
Importance in Technology:
- Power generation (motors and dynamos).
- Data storage (hard drives).
- Security systems.
- Industrial lifting (magnetic cranes).
Case Study – Magnetic Crane
What is a Magnetic Crane?
A magnetic crane is a type of industrial machine that uses an electromagnet to lift and
transport heavy metal materials like car bodies or scrap metal.
How it Works:
- An electromagnet is attached to the crane.
- When current is passed, it becomes magnetic and attracts metal.
- When current is stopped, the magnetism disappears, and the load is dropped.
Benefits:
- Can lift very heavy items without manual effort.
- Safe and efficient.
- Used in factories, junkyards, and recycling centers.
Real-World Use:
Scrapyards use magnetic cranes to separate iron from waste, making recycling faster and
cheaper.
Conclusion
Through this project, I have learned about the concept of magnetism, its types, laws, and
applications in daily life. I also understood how magnets are created and used in
industries. This knowledge is very useful in the world of science and technology.
Bibliography
1. ICSE Physics Class 9 Textbook
2. Class Notes
3. Teacher’s Explanation
4. Internet Sources like Wikipedia, BYJU’s, and PhysicsClassroom.com
