Thread: How is the easiest way to build a magnetic generator?

This is for a science fair project, using magnets and copper wire.

Arrange the copper wire in loops, place the magnet within those loops, and then move the magnet back and forth. A moving magnetic field generates electricity

I assume you wanted to generate electricity as a magnet automatically generates a magnetic field by itself.

I think you meant to ask how to build an electricity generator rather than a magnetic generator based on the parts you plan to use. Here is the general idea for a electricity generator. Relative motion between a conductor (copper wire ) and a magnetic field causes current to flow thru the conductor. Of course the two ends of the wire must be connected to each other directly or thru a load resistance such as flash light bulb in order to complete the circuit and allow current to flow.By whatever means you have available connect one end of the copper wire to one terminal of the flash light bulb and the other end of the copper wire to the other terminal of the bulb. Now I will leave it up to you to figure out a way to: (1) Cause the magnetic field of the magnet to pass thru the stationary loop of wire that is connected to the flash light bulb OR (2) A way to cause the loop of wire to pass thru the magnetic field of the stationary magnets. When you accomplish either of the two methods for relative motion the flash light bulb will start to glow. Now you have successfully built a crude electric generator. You can build a magnetic generator next time with a slight change in your parts inventory.