Magnetism Concepts

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magnet

Back

An object made of iron, nickel, or cobalt, or a combination of these materials, that has the ability to attract or repel other magnetic materials.

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attraction

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Being pulled or drawn near (by a magnetic field).

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magnetic field

Back

A space or area in which magnetic forces can be observed. If a magnetic field exists in an area, magnetic forces will deflect a compass needle placed in that area.

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magnetic pole (north and south)

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The end of a compass needle or magnet that points to the magnetic pole in the northern or southern hemisphere of the Earth if the needle or magnet is suspended freely.

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paramagnetic

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Materials that are not naturally magnetic but become magnetic in the presence of a magnet (e.g., paper clips). These materials lose their magnetization when removed from a magnetic field.

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repulsion

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To push away; the opposite of attract.

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(magnetic) compass

Back

A device that detects the presence and direction of a magnetic field.

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ferrite

Back

Magnets in which iron is blended with other materials.

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lodestone

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A naturally magnetized rock containing the mineral magnetite. Lodestone was used by ancient travelers for navigation.

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north-seeking pole

Back

The end of a compass needle or magnet that points to the magnetic pole in the Northern Hemisphere of the Earth if the needle or magnet is suspended freely.