A simple electromagnet consists of a coil that is wrapped around an iron core (to enhance the magnetic effect). As shown in the figures to the left, an electromagnet is (almost) not magnetic when no current is flowing trough the coil. The paper clips are lying on the table below the copper coil shown in the right part of the image. Once a current flows through the coil (check the switch and the ammeter in Fig. 1.3.b), the magnet is turned on and the paper clips are sticking to it. The magnetic field of a solenoid looks very similar to the magnetic field of a simple bar magnet, which is shown in Fig. 1.3.c.
Fig. 1.3.c
This image of a magnetic field was created by placing a magnet below a glass plate and sprinkling iron filings on top of the plate. the small iron particles align themselves parallel to the magnetic field and outline the shape of the magnetic field. You can easily make your own, or find a better picture here.

Now, "current loops" seem to be rather esoteric things, how does this relate to magnetic materials?

next - current loops and atomic magnetic moments