The author includes an introduction, a list of needed materials, and a bibliography for further reference. This is followed by a discussion of background information and a collection of corresponding transparency masters. The majority of this resource contains lab activities with diagrams of equipment setup. Topics for study include magnetic fields, electromagnets, and induced poles. One lab investigates the magnetic pole of the earth.
Students magnetize a needle suspended by a string using a solenoid.
When pulling the needle out of the solenoid, students observe the position of the needle and measure the angle it has made from the horizontal. By changing the orientation of the needle before magnetization and making appropriate measurements afterward, students can diagram the resulting magnetic field. Further exploration conceptually connects the magnetism of the earth with a bar magnet. Lists of demonstrations, computer applications, and homework assignments are included, as well as ideas for physics contests. Information on modern applications of magnets and test questions are also provided.