Magnetic Fields

Front

What are magnetic field lines?

Back

Magnetic field lines are imaginary lines that represent the direction and strength of a magnetic field. They show how the magnetic force is distributed in space.

Front

Do magnetic field lines ever cross?

Back

No, magnetic field lines never cross. If they did, it would indicate that a magnetic field has two different directions at the same point, which is impossible.

Front

What creates the Earth's magnetic field?

Back

The motion of liquid iron in the Earth's outer core creates the Earth's magnetic field.

Front

Can magnets interact without touching?

Back

Yes, magnets can interact without touching each other through the magnetic field they produce.

Front

What materials can be used to observe the effects of a magnetic field?

Back

Iron filings are commonly used to visualize the effects of a magnetic field, not non-metal fillings.

Front

What are the geographic poles?

Back

The geographic poles are the points on the Earth's surface where the Earth's axis of rotation meets the surface, specifically the North and South Poles.

Front

Are Earth's magnetic poles the same as its geographic poles?

Back

No, Earth's magnetic poles are not in the same place as the geographic poles; they shift over time.

Front

What is a magnet?

Back

A magnet is an object that produces a magnetic field, attracting materials like iron, nickel, and cobalt.

Front

What happens to a compass in a magnetic field?

Back

A compass needle aligns itself with the magnetic field, pointing towards the magnetic north.

Front

What is the difference between a permanent magnet and an electromagnet?

Back

A permanent magnet produces a constant magnetic field, while an electromagnet's magnetic field can be turned on and off using electricity.