Explain how an electromagnetic motor works?

A moving current in a magnetic field produces a force according to Fleming's Left Hand Rule. When a loop of wire with a current moving through it cuts magnetic field lines, movement is induced along the wire, perpendicular to both the direction of the current and magnetic field. This means that opposite sides of the loop move in opposite directions. The commutators connecting the wires to the power source ensure that the polarity of the current remains on the correct side of the magnetic field, i.e. it switches connecting ends of the wire every half revolution. This means that the motor will turn the same way indefinitely. 

Answered by Hannah S. Physics tutor

1761 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Using the principle of the conservation of energy, calculate the maximum speed of a ball of 5.0kg that has been dropped from a height of 20m. (Given that the gravitational field strength is equal to 9.8N/kg)


Describe the model now used for the structure of an atom. Refer to the constituent particles including their relative masses and charges.


An electric whisk in a bakery has two motors, each with an average power of 1500W. The whisk is used for 4 hours each day, 7 days a week. Electricity costs 18p per kilowatt-hour. Calculate the cost of the electricity used by the whisk in one week.


In most transformers, why is the power output is less than the power input.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy