Edexcel IGCSE Physics topic guide
Magnetism and electromagnetism questions
Follow magnetic field lines, apply the motor effect, and explain how generators and transformers transfer energy.
Magnetism and electromagnetism topic overview
Magnetism and electromagnetism covers magnetic fields, electromagnets, motor effects, induction, generators, transformers and electricity transmission.
Draw field directions clearly, apply the relevant hand rule before describing motion, and distinguish the motor effect from electromagnetic induction.
Question types in magnetism and electromagnetism
- Magnetic field-pattern diagrams and comparisons of magnetic materials.
- Motor-effect questions using field, current and force directions.
- Induction and generator explanations based on changing magnetic fields.
- Transformer turns-ratio, current and power calculations.
Magnetism and electromagnetism subtopics
Choose a subtopic for its syllabus points, answering guidance and worked exam questions.
6.a Units
Amperes, volts and watts in electromagnetic and generator calculations.
6.b Magnetism
Magnetic materials, poles, field patterns and interactions between magnets.
6.c Electromagnetism
Fields around currents, electromagnets, the motor effect and practical devices.
6.d Electromagnetic induction
Induced voltage, generators, transformers and efficient electricity transmission.