GCSE Physics (CIE)

Topic Summaries

Magnetic fields

Magnetic poles

  • Certain materials, such as iron, can experience magnetic forces.
  • These are non-contact forces.
  • Magnetic forces are strongest near magnetic poles.
    • Poles are labelled north or south depending on the direction they would eventually face if the magnet could freely turn.
    • Every magnet must have one of each pole. Both poles are as strong as each other.
    • Like poles will experience a repulsive force when brought near each other while unlike poles will attract.
  • Permanent magnets are those that produce magnetic fields. Induced magnets are materials that become magnets when in another magnetic field.
    • The poles of the induced magnet will always be so that it feels an attractive force in the field. Repulsive forces can only be experienced by two permanent magnets.
    • When an induced magnet leaves the magnetic field, it will lose its magnetism very quickly.

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