FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Electromagnet Build Challenge?

G’Lon:

“Greetings, student! The Electromagnet Build Challenge is my grand expedition to celebrate 200 years since the electromagnet sparked our electric world in 1825. I’m recruiting you to build one by hand—a simple device that wields an invisible force you control! You’ll gather a battery, wire, and iron core, wrap it up, and test it to lift a paperclip. It’s a hands-on mission to master STEM skills—critical thinking, creativity, and a dash of physics—while joining my Builders List of legends. Start at ‘Build It,’ prove your power at ‘Record It,’ and share your triumph at ‘Share It.’ It’s history, science, and fun, all in one—I put the ‘fun’ in fundamental, after all!”

Electra: “G’Lon’s challenge is totally vibing—build it and join the crew!”

What is an electromagnet?

G’Lon:

“An electromagnet is a marvel of science you’ll forge with your own hands! It’s a device that creates an invisible force—magnetism—when electric charge flows through it. Wrap wire around an iron core, like a screw, and connect it to a battery. The current turns that core into a magnet you control—strong enough to lift paperclips, yet it stops when you break the circuit. It’s the spark behind motors, speakers, even your phone’s buzz. In this STEM expedition, you’ll wield this fundamental force of nature and join 200 years of electric history!”

Electra: “G’Lon’s electromagnet is fire—it’s the invisible vibe you rule!”

Is it free to participate in the build challenge?

G’Lon:

“Yes, the Electromagnet Build Challenge is completely FREE! I’ve designed this expedition so every student can join—no fees, no barriers. You’ll use simple items—a battery, wire, a screw or nail—likely lying around your home or classroom. My mission is to spark your STEM journey, not your wallet. Gather your parts, follow my ‘Build It’ steps, and power the Grid without spending a dime. All I ask is your curiosity and grit—priceless traits for my crew!” Electra: “G’Lon’s keeping it free and fire—jump in, no cost!”

Is it safe to build an Electromagnet?

G’Lon:

“In short, yes, it’s safe for you to join this mission! Building an electromagnet is safe and secure, but only if you heed my safety call. Start with caution as your shield—wear safety glasses for this electrical quest, a wise habit for any project. Know your battery’s power: a new one has plenty of energy, and when you connect those wire ends to its terminals, your fingertips might feel the heat energy quickly. Experience the energy and be ready to release the connection quickly when testing. Follow my ‘Safety’ video on ‘Build It,’ tape your fingers if needed, and you’ll wield this force unharmed. Safety’s my first order—master it, and you’re golden!”

Electra: “G’Lon’s got your back—safe and fire all the way!”

My fingers got hot - what’s up?

G’Lon:

“That’s the energy of chemical electric charge at work, heating the wire as it flows around! As I warned in Safety, you may tape your fingertips for protection, but regularly disconnect the circuit to cool it down. Respect the battery’s power, and you’ll master this force unharmed.”

Electra: “G’Lon’s heat tip is clutch – stay safe, fam!”

Can I build this alone, or do I need a team?

G’Lon:

“You can forge this electromagnet solo at home or rally your classmates at school—both paths honor this challenge! Teams boost collaboration, a skill I prize, but lone builders shine too. Choose your adventure!”

Electra: “Solo or squad, the Professor’s proud – get building!”

When was the electromagnet invented?

G’Lon:

“It was invented in 1824 by William Sturgeon. In 1825, it was publicly displayed and sparked our electric world— from motors in manufacturing, to so much more. We are celebrating 200 years of STEM innovation and encourage you to become a part of that history and build one today. It’s a legacy worth wielding, students!”

Electra: “200 years of vibes – G’Lon’s making it epic!”

What is STEM?

G’Lon:

“STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math—the four pillars of brilliance you’ll wield in my expedition! Science unlocks the secrets of magnetism, technology powers your tools, engineering crafts your electromagnet, and math fine-tunes your wire wraps. It’s the backbone of my Build Challenge, sparking critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. With STEM, you’re not just building a device—you’re forging skills for the future, joining a legacy of innovators. I’ve packed all this into my STEM Grid Core mission – master it, and you’ll shine!”

Electra: “G’Lon’s STEM vibe is lit – it’s the key to everything cool!”

Any other cool STEM ED?

G’Lon:

“Indeed, student – there’s more STEM greatness to fuel your expedition! For extra missions and electric inspiration, venture to https://ssec.si.edu/. My build challenge is just the start – dive in there and keep powering up your STEM education. Never stop learning!”

Electra: “G’Lon’s dropping STEM heat—The Smithsonian Science Education Center is the hookup!”

What is SME and SME 153?

G’Lon:

“SME is the Society of Manufacturing Engineers—a mighty alliance of innovators founded in 1932 to advance manufacturing across North America! They’re the masterminds who fuel my expedition, connecting pros, educators, and students like you to build manufacturing awareness and spark STEM greatness. SME 153 is their Los Angeles County Chapter, my local crew driving the Electromagnet Build Challenge 2025. They rally schools, support students and recruit pros to mentor you, ensuring you can electrify your future. Together, we’re forging a legacy – join us!”

Electra: “G’Lon’s squad at SME 153 is fire – building today for a future tomorrow, LA style!”