How Does A Magnet Work?

By Author: Erwin Metius
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By definition, a magnet is an object that produces a magnetic field. You cannot physically see the magnetic field -rather it is characterized by a force that attracts other ferromagnetic materials or objects. For example, a fridge magnet will bond itself to the metal door of your refrigerator. A common experiment done in science classes to show the effect of a magnetic field is to take iron filings and sprinkle them around a magnet. Because the iron filings are ferromagnetic they align themselves with the fields of the magnet and you can in effect see a physical demonstration of the magnetic field.

Discovering the Science behind a Magnet

There have been several theories behind the working of magnets. However, the general consensus is that magnets are created by electric charges that flow through the materials. The charges surround individual atoms and flow in a counter-clockwise direction.

It is presumed that the atoms are aligned in a uniform lattice pattern, or stacked one on top of another in symmetrical rows. Internally the electric charges cancel each other out because of the way that they are aligned, ...
... but on the outside of the magnet the charges continue their anticlockwise circuit thus forming a magnetic field around it.

Something that is interesting about magnets is that, if for example, you have a large magnet and break it in half the magnet does not become ineffective. Rather, you'll be left with two separate and smaller magnets. This supports the theory that magnetism is cause by a collection of small independent electric charges.

Where do Magnets come from?

Chronicles describing the discovery and use of magnets date as far back as two thousand five hundred years ago in India, Greece, and China. Certain materials such as loadstone are naturally magnetic and it is possible that these were the source of primitive magnets. Explorers in China and Europe used magnetic compasses for navigation in the 12th and 13th century. Compasses can be used effectively for navigation as its needle aligns itself to magnetic north, an area that is a few degrees off the earth's true North Pole. The magnetic North Pole, interestingly enough, is not static but rather shifts slightly on an annual basis -a phenomenon that is yet to be scientifically explained. The difference between true north and magnetic north is known as magnetic declination. It varies in bearing from true north depending on where you are located on the globe. When reading a map with a magnetic compass you should check the map for details of the magnetic declination. You can then use that to calculate your bearing with your map and compass.

Are all Magnets Permanent?

While some natural materials such as loadstone appear to hold a magnetic field of their own accord, other ferromagnetic metals can be magnetized by placing them on or near a magnet. They however will not remain magnetic after the magnet is removed. The most common magnets in modern technology are electromagnets, which are created by passing an electric current through a solenoid that is coiled around a metal core. However, the minute the electric current is switched off the electromagnet loses its ability to attract metal objects. Electromagnets can be extremely powerful and for this reason have numerous industrial applications.

Does a Magnet work on any Object or Surface?

Magnets will only work on ferromagnetic surfaces, or materials that can conduct an electric charge. Most metals are ferromagnetic, iron, or steel being the most effective. Therefore, when you place a magnet on a fridge or metal table it will stick to it. On the other hand, if you place a magnet on vertical plastic or wooden surface it will simply fall off, as plastics or wooden objects cannot conduct electric charges.

What are Some Common Uses for Magnets?

In your home you probably have more magnets than you realize -some which are quite visible including a colorful collection of fridge magnets in the kitchen. In your living room you may have an entertainment center. A bit more hidden, most audio speakers in televisions and stereo systems use magnets to amplify the sound. In your kitchen you may have small magnetic clasps on your cupboard doors helping to keep doors from swinging open on their own. Your fridge door also has a magnetic seal which helps to keep the door closed. If you look around you will find you have many different magnets in your every day life, all of which truly contribute to your ease and comfort.
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