How Magnets Work

Magnets are fascinating objects that can push or pull without touching. Every magnet creates an invisible force field around it. This magnetic field can attract metals like iron and interact with other magnets. Magnetism is caused by the movement of electrons inside atoms.

Magnetic Fields

The space around a magnet where the force works is called the magnetic field. You can see the shape of a magnetic field by sprinkling iron filings on paper over a magnet. The filings line up along curved lines from the north pole to the south pole. The field is strongest near the poles.

Types of Magnets

Permanent magnets keep their magnetism all the time. Refrigerator magnets and bar magnets are permanent magnets. Electromagnets are magnets created by running electricity through a coil of wire. Electromagnets can be turned on and off. They are used in doorbells, junkyard cranes, and MRI machines.

Fun Facts

• If you cut a magnet in half, you get two smaller magnets, each with its own north and south pole.
• The Earth's magnetic poles slowly wander. The north magnetic pole moves about 34 miles per year.
• Maglev trains use powerful electromagnets to float above the tracks and travel at over 300 miles per hour.

Did You Know?

Neodymium magnets are the strongest permanent magnets in the world. A small neodymium magnet can lift over 1,000 times its own weight. They are so strong that two magnets snapping together can pinch your fingers!