PLOTTING MAGNETIC
LINES OF FORCE:
A CURRENT CARRYING WIRE (Solenoid)
EQUIPMENT
Blue Power Supply (Max = 12 volts, high Amps)
Solenoid Model
Iron Filings
NARRATIVE
The magnetic field of a current carrying wire may be plotted with
iron filings.Using the Demonstration table overhead projector, connect the solenoid model
to the blue power supply using no more than 12 VDC. Sprinkle iron filings on the model
while tapping it. The filings will form circular paths around the wire. Do not leave the
power supply on longer than it takes to establish the lines of force as the wire gets very
hot very quickly.