repel
Definition
Repel is a force that pushes two objects away from each other. This force is caused by the interaction of electric charges. Like charges repel each other, while opposite charges attract each other.
The strength of the repulsive force between two objects depends on the strength of the electric charges on the objects and the distance between them. The closer the objects are, the stronger the repulsive force.
Repel is a very important force in nature. It is responsible for the structure of atoms and molecules, as well as the formation of stars and galaxies.
How can the word be used?
The magnet repelled the iron.
Different forms of the word
Verb:
- to drive or force back or away.
- to be or to cause to be unpleasant or distasteful.
Noun:
- the act of repelling.
Etymology
The word "repel" comes from the Latin word "repellere", which means "to drive back".
The first recorded use of the word "repel" in English was in the 14th century.
Question
What does repel mean?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the concept of repulsion in the context of magnetism and provide an example of how like poles of magnets demonstrate this phenomenon.
Answer:
Repulsion in the context of magnetism refers to the force that pushes away two magnetic poles of the same type, known as "like poles." According to the fundamental law of magnetism, like poles repel each other, causing the magnets to move apart.
For instance, if two bar magnets are brought close to each other with their north poles facing each other, they will exhibit repulsion. The north pole of one magnet pushes against the north pole of the other, creating a force that tries to separate them. Similarly, if the south poles of two magnets are facing each other, they will also experience repulsion.
This phenomenon is a direct consequence of the interaction between magnetic fields. Each magnet generates a magnetic field that flows from its north pole to its south pole. When two like poles come into proximity, their magnetic fields oppose each other, resulting in the repulsive force observed between them.
Understanding repulsion is fundamental in grasping the behaviour of magnets and their interactions. This phenomenon, along with attraction (when opposite poles attract), forms the basis for various applications of magnets, such as in electric motors, magnetic locks, and compasses.