The Magnetic Field in a Slinky
Recommended for grades 9–12.
Introduction
A solenoid is made by taking a tube and wrapping it with many turns of wire. A metal Slinky® is the same shape and will serve as our solenoid. When a current passes through the wire, a magnetic field is present inside the solenoid. Solenoids are used in electronic circuits or as electromagnets.
In this lab we will explore factors that affect the magnetic field inside the solenoid and study how the field varies in different parts of the solenoid. By inserting a Magnetic Field Sensor between the coils of the Slinky, you can measure the magnetic field inside the coil. You will also measure μ0, the permeability constant. The permeability constant is a fundamental constant of physics.
Objectives
- Determine the relationship between magnetic field and the current in a solenoid.
- Determine the relationship between magnetic field and the number of turns per meter in a solenoid.
- Study how the field varies inside and outside a solenoid.
- Determine the value of μ0, the permeability constant.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.