This chapter explores magnets, their properties, and their various applications. Magnets are objects that can attract certain materials, such as iron, nickel, and cobalt.
Properties of magnets include their ability to attract or repel other magnets, their polarity (having a north pole and a south pole), and their ability to create a magnetic field around them.
Opposite poles of magnets attract each other, while like poles repel each other. This principle is known as the law of magnetic poles.
Different types of magnets include bar magnets (rectangular or cylindrical magnets), horseshoe magnets (shaped like a horseshoe), and disc magnets.
Magnetic materials: Certain materials, such as iron, nickel, and cobalt, are attracted to magnets and can be temporarily magnetized when brought close to a magnet.
Magnetic field is the region around a magnet where its influence can be felt. The magnetic field is strongest at the poles of a magnet.
Applications of magnets: Magnets are used in compasses to determine direction, in electric motors and generators, in refrigerator magnets, and in magnetic toys and games.
Materials can be magnetized by bringing them in contact with a magnet or by stroking them with a magnet.
Magnetic induction: A magnet can induce temporary magnetism in a magnetic material without physically touching it.