Energy Dictionary

solenoid

Originally a solenoid referred to the loop of the conductor in an electromagnet. But it is now commonly understood as a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy.

A solenoid is made up of a long conductive coil embedded in an iron frame, with a cylindrical plunger placed outside the coil. When electricity is passed through the coil, it creates a magnetic field that magnetizes the iron, which attracts the plunger and causes it to move towards the coil and into the empty space between the coil and the iron. This motion can be harnessed to produce mechanical energy.

See also:

Conductor, electromagnetic field, energy