Definition check: In basic electricity and magnetism, what is meant by electromagnetism?

Introduction / Context:
Electromagnetism unifies electric and magnetic phenomena. For practical technicians, the key takeaway is that electric current creates magnetic fields, and changing magnetic fields can induce electric fields—principles used in motors, generators, relays, and transformers.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We seek a concise definition applicable to basic circuits and devices.
• Context includes wires, coils, and magnetic fields generated by current.
• Permanent magnets are not the primary focus.

Concept / Approach:
When current flows through a conductor, a magnetic field forms in concentric circles around it (right-hand rule). Coiling the conductor concentrates the field, creating an electromagnet. Conversely, Faraday’s and Lenz’s laws explain how changing magnetic fields induce voltages in conductors. The term “electromagnetism” in this introductory context refers to magnetism produced by electric current and the interplay between electric and magnetic fields.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Apply current to a straight wire → magnetic field appears around it.Form the wire into a coil → field lines add, strengthening the magnetism.Introduce a ferromagnetic core → further concentrates and strengthens the field (electromagnet).Thus, electromagnetism is the magnetic action resulting from electric current.

Verification / Alternative check:
Demonstrations with a compass near a current-carrying wire or the operation of a relay (coil energizes, armature pulls in) visibly confirm the production of magnetic effects by electrical current.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Permanent magnet alone: that is magnetostatics of permanent materials, not electromagnetism from current.Interaction between permanent and artificial magnet: describes magnet-to-magnet behavior, not current-generated fields.“Current in the coil” only states a quantity, not the magnetic action it causes.

Common Pitfalls:
Thinking electromagnetism requires coils only; even a straight conductor exhibits magnetic effects. Coils and cores simply enhance and shape those fields.

Final Answer:
the magnetic field action associated with a current-carrying conductor (electric current producing magnetism)