Geosphere: Earth's Magnetic Field

Design and build a compass. Create a model of the Earth's magnetic field and use the Magnetic Field Sensor to measure its strength.

Lab Summary:

In this experiment, students will first build a primitive compass that will concretely expose the difference between geographic north and magnetic north. Next, the students will use a magnetic field sensor to model the Earth's magnetic field using a bar magnet.

Download free labs:

(student versions)

Computer-based lab (PDF, 512 KB)

Xplorer GLX-based lab (PDF, 120 KB)

Method:

Use a Magnetic Field Sensor to measure the strength of bar magnet that is modeling the Earth's magnetic field.

Here's What You Need:

Required for computer-based lab:

(See lab download for Xplorer GLX-based lab requirements, which may differ)

Probeware

• PASPORT Magnetic Field Sensor (PS-2112)
• Xplorer GLX Graphing Datalogger (PS-2002)
  (or alternate PASPORT interface -- see other options)

Other Materials

• Bar Magnet
• Magnetic Dip Needle or Sewing Needle
• Degree Wheel
• Map of Earth (Magnetic North) template
• Protective Gear
• Small Cork
• Water, 500.0 mL
• Clear plastic cup
• Iron Filings

Lab Manual:

The computer-based activity is included in Explorations in Earth and Environmental Science (PS-2809). The Xplorer GLX-based lab is included in Earth and Environmental Science with the Xplorer GLX (PS-2821A). Both manuals are complete with Teacher Information pages, student instructions and handouts, and sample data.

For your convenience, we offer bundles which provide the probeware for the activities in the manual. For more, please see:
Computer-based Earth and Environmental Science Lab Manual and Bundles
Xplorer GLX-based Earth and Environmental Science Lab Manual and Bundles