Iron Core - GCSE Physics Definition

In the context of GCSE Physics, the term 'Iron Core' refers to a cylindrical piece of iron placed inside a coil of wire, typically within an electromagnet or transformer, to significantly enhance the magnetic field created by the coil. The iron core becomes magnetised when an electric current passes through the coil, aligning its domains and therefore concentrating the magnetic field lines. This results in a much stronger magnetic field compared to one generated by the coil alone, making iron cores essential in devices that rely on electromagnetism, by improving their efficiency and functionality.