Magnetism and electromagnetismQuestion 202 of 1506

The leads of a solenoid coil are swapped, which reverses the polarity of its field. What happens to the pull on the iron armature?

  1. The armature is pushed away
  2. The armature is still pulled in
  3. The pull drops to zero
  4. The armature spins around
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Correct answer: The armature is still pulled in

An iron armature is attracted by either pole of the field, so the direction of the coil current does not matter.

Source: Lessons in Electric Circuits IV: Digital (Kuphaldt), 5.1: Relay Construction

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026