# A maglev train uses the motor effect to accelerate along a track. Explain how increasing the current in the train's electromagnets and reversing the direction of the current each affect the force experienced by the train.

> AQA GCSE Physics (8463) — 4.7.2 The motor effect · Explain · 4 marks

> Maglev trains use powerful electromagnets carrying large currents placed within magnetic fields to produce the forces needed for acceleration and braking.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Increasing the current increases the strength of the magnetic field around the wire / electromagnet
2. A stronger magnetic field results in a greater force on the train (motor effect)
3. Reversing the direction of the current reverses the direction of the force on the train
4. This can be determined / explained using Fleming's left-hand rule, where the direction of the force depends on the direction of the current relative to the magnetic field

## Key terms

- [motor effect](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/motor-effect)
- [current](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/current)
- [force](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/force)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Physics (8463)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-maglev-train-uses-the-motor-27eb67b0) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.