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    Magnetism & Electromagnetism

    Revision notes · Physics

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    Lesson step 1 of 4Magnets & Magnetic Fields

    Magnets & Magnetic Fields

    Every magnet has a north pole and a south pole. Like poles repel; unlike poles attract.

    A magnetic field is the region around a magnet where a force acts on magnetic materials or other magnets. Field lines go from north to south and never cross. Closer lines = stronger field.

    Magnetic materials: iron, steel, cobalt, nickel. These can be magnetised.

    Magnets can be permanent or induced. Permanent magnets produce their own magnetic field. Induced magnets are made from magnetic materials that become magnetic when placed in a magnetic field. They lose most or all of their magnetism when removed from the field. For example, a paperclip held by a permanent magnet becomes an induced magnet.

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    Key Terms

    Motor effect
    The force experienced by a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field.
    Solenoid
    A coil of wire that produces a magnetic field similar to a bar magnet when current flows through it.