Question
What name is given to a magnet produced by an electric current?
Answer
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Uriel
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
Electromagnet
Explanation
A magnet produced by an electric current refers to an electromagnet. These types of magnets differ from typical permanent magnets—like those composed of ferromagnetic materials like iron or steel—since they can be switched on and off voluntarily. The way this works is by regulating the flow of electricity: when the electric current flows, the electromagnet is activated—or 'on'—and behaves magnetically. However, when the current is ceased, the magnet is deactivated – or 'off' –and is no longer magnetic. This capacity to flexibly control its magnetic nature makes an electromagnet incredibly useful in a number of utilitarian scenarios, including their use in switches, relays, and circuit breakers.