magnetic
Definition
Magnetic is a property of some materials that allows them to attract or repel other magnets or objects made of magnetic materials. The force of magnetism is caused by the motion of electrons inside the atoms of the material.
Magnets have two poles, called the north pole and the south pole. Opposite poles attract each other, while like poles repel each other. The strength of the magnetic field around a magnet is strongest at the poles and weakest in the middle.
Magnets can be classified into two types: permanent magnets and electromagnets. Permanent magnets are made from materials that have a strong magnetic field even when they are not connected to an electric current. Electromagnets are made from materials that have a weak magnetic field when they are not connected to an electric current. However, when an electric current is passed through an electromagnet, the magnetic field becomes strong.
Magnets are used in many different ways, such as in compasses, refrigerator magnets, and electric motors. They are also used in medical devices, such as MRI machines.
How can the word be used?
The scientist studied the magnetic properties of the material.
Different forms of the word
Adjective: Describing something that has the properties of a magnet. For example, you could say "a magnetic field" or "a magnetic personality".
Noun: A force that attracts or repels objects. For example, you could say "the magnetic force of the Earth" or "the magnetic force of a magnet".
Etymology
The word "magnet" comes from the Greek word "μαγνῆτις λίθος" (magnē̂tis líthos), which means "Magnesian stone". This is a reference to the Magnesian region of Greece, where lodestone was first found. Lodestone is a naturally occurring magnet that was used by the ancient Greeks to make compasses.
The Greek word "μαγνῆτις λίθος" is thought to be derived from the name of the Magnesian tribe, the Magnetes. The Magnetes were a people who lived in the Magnesian region of Greece. They were known for their use of lodestone, and they were said to be able to control the movement of iron with their magnets.
Question
What materials are magnetic?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain what magnetism is and how it relates to the concept of magnetic materials. Provide examples of everyday items that exhibit magnetic properties.
Answer:
Magnetism is a fundamental force of nature that causes certain materials to attract or repel each other. It arises from the motion of charged particles within the atoms of a material. In magnetic materials, such as iron, nickel, and cobalt, the electrons move in a coordinated manner, aligning their spins. This alignment results in the creation of microscopic magnetic regions, or domains, within the material.
When these domains are aligned in the same direction, the material becomes magnetised. Magnetised materials can exert attractive or repulsive forces on other magnetic objects. For example, when you bring a magnet close to a paperclip, the paperclip may stick to the magnet due to the magnetic force between them.
Many everyday items demonstrate magnetic properties. Refrigerator magnets are a common example. They use the magnetism of materials like iron or steel to stick to the fridge's surface. Magnetic strip cards, like credit or debit cards, contain a strip of magnetic material that stores information. Additionally, some types of cell phone cases and tablet covers use embedded magnets to help secure the devices.
Understanding magnetism and how it interacts with materials is essential for technological applications such as electric motors, generators, and even medical imaging devices like MRI machines.