Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 1
MAGNETOSTATICS
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MAGNETOSTATICS
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Subject: Physics
Class: SHS 1
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 10
Grade code: 1.3.1.LI.1
Strand code: 3
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 1.3.1.CS.1
Indicator code: 1.3.1.LI.1
Theme: ELECTRIC FIELD, MAGNETIC FIELD AND ELECTRONICS
Subtheme: MAGNETOSTATICS
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This lesson introduces the fundamental concepts of magnetostatics, the study of stationary magnetic fields. Magnets are all around us, from the small ones that hold notes on our refrigerators to the powerful ones used in electric motors that power our fans, and the giant electromagnets in scrapyards like Agbogbloshie that lift heavy metals. Understanding how magnets work is the first step to understanding many technologies we use every day, including speakers, electric motors, and even how the Earth protects us with its own magnetic field. This lesson will lay the foundation for these exciting topics.
2.1 What is Magnetism?
Magnetism is a fundamental force of nature. It is the force of attraction or repulsion that arises between certain materials. A magnet is any object that produces a magnetic field. Natural Magnets: Some rocks are naturally magnetic. The most common one is called lodestone (or magnetite). Ancient sailors used it to make the first compasses. Artificial Magnets: These are magnets made by people, usually from iron, nickel, cobalt, or their alloys. They can be made into different shapes like bar magnets, horseshoe magnets, and disc magnets.
Magnetic vs. Non-Magnetic Materials: Magnetic Materials (Ferromagnetic): These are materials that are strongly attracted to a magnet and can be easily magnetised. Examples: Iron, Cobalt, Nickel, and Steel. Non-Magnetic Materials: These are materials that are not attracted to a magnet. Examples: Wood, plastic, glass, copper, aluminium, paper. 2.2 Magnetic Poles and the Laws of Magnetism
Every magnet has two ends where its magnetic effect is strongest. These ends are called poles. One pole is called the North-seeking pole (or simply North pole, N). The other is called the South-seeking pole (or simply South pole, S).