DESCRIPTION: The workshop will begin by demonstrating methods to introduce the phenomena of electromagnetic induction – the crowning achievement of Michael Faraday’s life-long exploration of the connections between electricity and magnetism. In our modern world we often encounter electromagnetic induction in the form of microphones, electric guitars, and generators. We will demonstrate this surprising phenomena using simple equipment and explain it with straightforward concepts. Online simulations, applets, and video demos will deepen our understanding. We will become familiar with Faraday’s way of understanding induction by inventing the magnetic field and magnetic flux concepts and visualizing them via his extraordinary diagrams.

Participants will investigate the phenomena independently and explore the mathematical relationships (Faraday’s Law and Lenz’s Law) emerging from the diagrams. Solenoids, neodymium magnets, multi-meters, voltage probes, Vernier interfaces, and data collection software will be available for participants to investigate the various factors affecting induced voltage both qualitatively and quantitatively. We will provide the information and resources for teachers to build their own solenoids and/or obtain materials for their classrooms. If possible, participants should bring a laptop so that they can use the applets and interfaces. Those registering for the workshop will be provided with URLs and passwords so they can download and install the relevant software before the workshop

Links to Workshop Materials: https://docs.google.com/file/d/0Bxd4VjQ-suMJOEswN1U0cFA3N2s/edit ( Just be careful when downloading, the powerpoints contains videos and takes up a lot of space). If you want presentation free of videos, then download the attached file.