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Magnetism

Physics: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 7.1.1

Magnetism

Magnetism describes the ability of magnets to attract (pull towards) and repel (push away) other magnets without touching them.

Attraction

Attraction

  • Magnets have a north pole (N) and south pole (S).
  • If two magnets are close enough to each other, then the south pole of one magnet will attract the north pole of the other magnet.
  • This is an example of a non-contact force.
Repulsion

Repulsion

  • If one magnet is turned so that both south poles (or both north poles) are close together, then the magnets will repel each other.
  • Opposite poles on a magnet attract and like poles on a magnet repel. This is an example of a non-contact force.
The poles of a magnet

The poles of a magnet

  • A magnet's poles are where the magnetic forces are strongest.

Test yourself on Magnetism

  • What are the poles of a magnet?

  • Which of the following are true?

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