Permanent Magnets Flashcards
What is the difference between magnetic and non-magnetic materials
Magnetic materials: Attracted to magnets (e.g. iron, steel, cobalt, nickel)
Non-magnetic materials: Not attracted to magnets (e.g. wood, plastic, copper, aluminum)
How does a magnet attract an unmagnetised object
The magnetic field of the magnet induces magnetism in the unmagnetised object (usually a magnetic material), turning it into a temporary magnet with opposite poles near the magnet — opposite poles attract (like how charged objects interact).
What is the difference between materials used for permanent and temporary magnets
Permanent magnets: Made from materials like steel or magnadur – retain magnetism well.
Temporary magnets: Made from iron or mumetal – magnetise quickly but lose magnetism easily.
How do you identify the poles of a magnetic dipole?
Suspend the magnet freely; it will align with Earth’s magnetic field.
The end pointing north is the north pole of the magnet.
The opposite is the south pole.
