Magnetism and Electricity Flashcards

Grade 6 · Science · Flashcards

Study key vocabulary about magnets, electric circuits, and electromagnetism.

Flashcards

Magnet: An object with a magnetic field that attracts iron and other ferromagnetic materials.
Magnetic poles: The two ends of a magnet (north, south); opposite poles attract; like poles repel.
Magnetic field: The invisible region around a magnet where magnetic forces act.
Compass: A navigational tool containing a small magnet that aligns with Earth's magnetic field to indicate direction.
Electromagnet: A magnet created by wrapping a coil of wire around an iron core and passing current through it; can be switched on and off.
Electric current: The flow of electrons through a conductor; measured in amperes (A).
Voltage: Electrical potential difference that drives current flow; measured in volts (V).
Resistance: Opposition to current flow in a material; measured in ohms (Ω).
Ohm's Law: V = IR; voltage equals current multiplied by resistance.
Series circuit: Components connected in a single loop; if one fails, all stop; current same throughout.
Parallel circuit: Components in separate branches; each works independently; used in home wiring.
Conductor: A material that allows electricity to flow easily (e.g., copper, aluminum).
Insulator: A material that resists the flow of electricity (e.g., rubber, plastic, wood).
Electromagnetic induction: Generating electricity by moving a conductor through a magnetic field; the principle behind generators.