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Question

What is the difference between a solenoid and an electromagnet?

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Solution

A solenoid is a coil of wire wound on a cylinder, that has a length that is large compared with its radius. When an electric current flows through the wire the solenoid generates a magnetic field similar to that of a bar magnet.

An electromagnet is a magnet that runs on electricity. An electromagnet is a solenoid wound around a central iron core. Unlike a permanent magnet, the strength of an electromagnet can easily be changed by changing the amount of electric current that flows through it. The poles of an electromagnet can even be reversed by reversing the flow of electricity.


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