Magnets

Magnetic Properties

You might well already know this! But if not, you need too!

Magnets, figure 1

Magnetic Materials

There are only a few materials that exhibit magnetic properties. They include:

  • Cobalt
  • Steel
  • Iron
  • Nickel

Magnets

There two different types of magnetic field - permanent and induced.

  • A permanent magnet produces its own magnetic field and can attract and repel other magnets.
  • An induced magnet is a material that becomes a magnet __when it is placed in a magnetic field. Induced magnetism __always causes a force of attraction. When the magnetic field is removed, or the material is taken out of the field, the induced magnet loses its magnetism quickly.



What happens if a south pole and a north pole are brought near each other?
Your answer should include: attract / move toward
Can an induced magnet attract and repel like a permanent magnet?
no
Explanation: only attract
Define a permanent magnet
produce its own magnetic field