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attract

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Attract means to draw something towards oneself. It is often used to describe the force that pulls two objects together.

In science, attract is often used to describe the force of gravity. Gravity is the force that pulls all objects towards each other. The Earth's gravity pulls us down towards the ground, and the Moon's gravity pulls the oceans towards it, creating tides.

Attract can also be used to describe the force of magnetism. Magnetism is the force that attracts some materials and repels others. Magnets have two poles, a north pole and a south pole. Opposite poles attract each other, while like poles repel each other.

Here are some examples of how to attract is used in science:

  • The Earth's gravity attracts the Moon, keeping it in orbit around the Earth.
  • Magnets attract iron filings.
  • Positive and negative charges attract each other.

How can the word be used?

The politician's speech was like a magnet, attracting people's attention.

attract

Different forms of the word

Noun: attraction (plural: attractions).

Adjective: attractive.

Adverb: attractively.

Verb: attract (to draw something or someone towards oneself).

Gerund: attracting.

Participle: attracted.

Past tense: attracted.

Past participle: attracted.

Etymology

The word "attract" comes from the Latin word attrahere, which means "to draw to, attract." The Latin word attrahere is derived from the prefix ad-, which means "to" or "towards," and the verb trahere, which means "to draw.".

Question

Provide some examples of objects being attracted to each other,

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the term "attract" in the context of magnetism. Describe the basic principle of magnetic attraction between two magnets and the factors that influence the strength of this attraction.

Answer:

In the context of magnetism, "attract" refers to the force that pulls two magnets together when their opposite poles are facing each other. The basic principle behind magnetic attraction is that opposite poles (north and south) of magnets attract each other, while like poles (north-north or south-south) repel each other. The strength of magnetic attraction between two magnets depends on their magnetic field strength, which is influenced by the magnet's size, material, and distance between the magnets. Closer proximity and stronger magnetic fields result in a more significant attractive force between the magnets.