Magnet

A magnet is an object that creates a force called magnetism. This force can pull some metals toward the magnet or push them away. Metals such as iron, nickel, and cobalt are strongly affected by magnets. A common example is a fridge magnet, which sticks to the metal door because of magnetic force.

Every magnet has two ends called poles. One end is the north pole, and the other end is the south pole. The poles are where the magnetic force is strongest. When two magnets are brought close together, their poles interact. Opposite poles, north and south, pull toward each other. The same poles, north with north or south with south, push away from each other.

Magnets can be natural or made by people. A natural magnet is a rock called lodestone. Lodestone contains a mineral called magnetite, which has natural magnetic properties. Most magnets used today are made by people. These are called artificial magnets. They are often made from iron or steel and shaped into bars, rings, or horseshoe forms.

Magnetism is closely linked to electricity. When electric current flows through a wire, it creates a magnetic field. A magnetic field is the area around a magnet where magnetic force can be felt. Using electricity, people can make electromagnets. An electromagnet is a magnet that works only when electric current is flowing. When the current stops, the magnetism stops.

Magnets are used in many everyday objects. Electric motors use magnets to create motion. Speakers and headphones use magnets to produce sound. Compasses use magnets to show direction. A compass needle is a small magnet that points toward Earth’s magnetic north. Earth itself acts like a giant magnet because of movements inside its core.

Magnets lose strength over time if they are heated, dropped, or hit often. Strong heat can disturb the arrangement of tiny magnetic regions inside the magnet. These regions are called domains. When domains are lined up, the magnet is strong. When they are not lined up, the magnet becomes weaker. Scientists study magnetism as part of physics, which is the study of matter and energy.