GCSE Physics · Edexcel 1PH0 · Topic 12A
Magnets and magnetic fields
Key points
- Magnets have a north and south pole. Like poles repel; unlike poles attract.
- Magnetic materials include iron, steel, nickel and cobalt.
- A permanent magnet produces its own field; an induced magnet becomes magnetic only while it is in a magnetic field, and always attracts.
- Field lines point from north to south. The field is strongest at the poles where the lines are closest.
- Plot field patterns with a plotting compass or iron filings. A uniform field (between opposite poles close together) has parallel, equally spaced lines.
- A compass points north because the Earth has a magnetic field, evidence that its core is magnetic.
Topic notesPremium
Magnets exert forces on each other and on some metals without touching them. This sub-topic describes magnetic poles and fields, the difference between permanent and induced magnets, and the evidence that the Earth itself behaves like a…
Unlock the full notes with Premium
Premium includes full topic notes, the paper generator, self-quizzes and progress tracking.
Practise this topicPremium
Premium members can generate an exam-style paper with a mark scheme, or take a quick quiz, on Magnets and magnetic fields.