Draw magnetic fields
Field lines show the direction a north pole would move and the relative strength of a field. Lines are closer together where the field is stronger and never cross.
GCSE Physics resources
AQA GCSE Magnetism and electromagnetism
AQA GCSE Magnetism and electromagnetism Revision
Use field-line direction and the right-hand rule carefully. Electricity and magnetism are linked: current creates a magnetic field, and changing magnetic fields can induce a potential difference.
Topic overview
Plan your magnetism and electromagnetism revision
Use the resource cards below to revise one idea at a time. Each page includes worked examples, mini quizzes, practice questions, exam language and a visual or simulation when it adds learning value.
Knowledge map
How the topic fits together
Use this overview to find the part of the topic that needs attention; the focused guides below teach and assess each idea in depth.
Explain electromagnets and motors
A current in a wire creates a magnetic field. The interaction between this field and an external field can produce a force on the wire. Increasing current or field strength can increase the motor effect.
Link induction to the National Grid
A changing magnetic field through a coil induces a potential difference. Transformers use electromagnetic induction to change potential difference, allowing high-voltage transmission with lower current and reduced heating losses.
Focused revision
Choose one idea at a time
Each guide combines explanation, a diagnostic check, misconception repair, worked examples and exam-style practice.
MA-01
Magnetic Fields, Electromagnets and the Motor Effect
A current produces a magnetic field, and a current-carrying conductor in an external field can experience a force. Use field diagrams and Fleming’s left-hand rule carefully for Higher demand.
MA-02
Generator Effect and Electromagnetic Induction
Moving a conductor through a magnetic field, or changing the magnetic field through a coil, induces a potential difference. Reversing the motion reverses the induced current direction.
MA-03
Transformers and the National Grid
Step-up transformers raise potential difference for transmission; step-down transformers reduce it for consumers. Use the turns ratio and explain why high voltage reduces current and cable heating for a given power.
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Build the exam skills around the physics
AQA GCSE Physics Required PracticalsLearn the method, diagnose errors and practise it.GCSE Physics Equations and Maths SkillsLearn the method, diagnose errors and practise it.How to Answer GCSE Physics Calculation QuestionsLearn the method, diagnose errors and practise it.How to Answer GCSE Physics Six-Mark QuestionsLearn the method, diagnose errors and practise it.GCSE Physics Graph SkillsLearn the method, diagnose errors and practise it.
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