Uses of an electromagnet

The Circuit Breaker

The diagram shows a circuit breaker.

A circuit breaker is used, instead of a fuse, to protect an electrical circuit. If the current flowing gets
too big the circuit breaker breaks the circuit.

Explain how the circuit breaker works.

 Uses of an electromagnet

The Circuit Breaker

A fault in an electrical circuit can cause too great a current to flow. Some circuits are switched off by a
circuit breaker.

One type of circuit breaker is shown above. A normal current is flowing.

Explain, in full detail, what happens when a current which is bigger than normal flows.
 Uses of an electromagnet

The Relay
The diagram shows a switch that is operated by an electromagnet.

Pivot

Iron arm
Electromagnet
Contacts

The switch is used in a car starter motor circuit.

Ignition
key

M
Starter motor

Explain how turning the ignition key makes a current flow in the starter motor.
 Uses of an electromagnet

The Electromagnet
The diagram below shows a door lock which can be opened from a flat inside a building.

Explain how the door is unlocked when the switch is closed.

 Uses of an electromagnet

The Electric Bell

Explain how the electric bell works.

 Uses of an electromagnet

The Residual Current detector

Explain how the RCD works.