Solenoid and Electromagnet

A cylindrical Coil of wire whose diameter is small compared to its length is known as a Solenoid. It can be used to generate an essentially uniform Magnetic Field similar to that of a bar Magnet, Figure 1, when a Current is running through it. The Magnetic Field is directed along the axis of the Solenoid.

Figure 1: The Magnetic Field is similar for both the Solenoid and the bar Magnet

By wrapping the Current carrying Coil around a core of iron, the Magnetic Field can further be strengthened and an Electromagnet is formed, Figure 2.

Figure 2: Solenoid wrapped around a core of iron

Electromagnet converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. It is used in many electromechanical devices such as circuit breakers, motors, relays, etc.

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