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Making a generator/electromagnet

This multipurpose piece of equipment is simple to construct. All you need is a bolt, some wire anywhere from 24 to 30 gauge and some electrical tape.

The length and diameter of the bolt are unimportant, but it must be steel. Check it with a magnet if you are unsure. If it sticks, it's steel. If it don't, it ain't. I like the large bolt as it is easy for younger students to handle. Cut a couple short pieces of tape and leave them handy. Tape the wire to the bolt about 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch from the head of the bolt. Make sure to leave 6-8" of wire on the end hanging free. Wind the wire around the bolt until you reach the head. Continue winding back to where you started and repeat until the layers of wire are flush with the head of the bolt. It doesn't matter if the wires cross over or are messy, just try to get lots of wraps on, the more the merrier. When done wrapping, use the tape to secure the wire and cut off the excess to match the other end.

Attaching heavier wires as shown in the picture is a good idea. The magnet wire will eventually break if used much. If it does, don't cry. Just undo the tape, take off a couple of wraps, and tape it back up.

For experiments using the generator/electromagnet, click HERE.