Magnetic Fields• A magnetic field consists of imaginary lines of flux moving

around a magnet where the magnetic force is exerted• Magnetic field lines always form loops.

The lines represent the invisible magnetic field surrounding a magnet

The Earth itself is a magnet, with a magnetic northpole and south pole.

S

N The Earth’s magnetic field continually traps moving charged particles coming from the sun, called solar wind.

The origin of the Earth’s magnetic field is said to be a result of the electric currents produced by the rotation of the iron-nickel core.

What is a Magnet?

• A magnet is anything that attracts materials that has a magnetic field and will attract materials like iron, nickel and cobalt.

• A material that has strong magnetic properties is called ferromagnetic (ferrum is a latin word for iron.)

Uses for Magnets

• Holding things on your refrigerator!• Credit cards• Computers• Electronics• Compasses• And many more!

Properties of Magnets• Magnets attract when the OPPOSITE POLES of

two magnetic objects are close to each other.

• Magnets also strongly attract ferromagnetic materials such as iron, nickel and cobalt.

• Magnets Repel when LIKE POLES are facing each other, the magnetic force pushes them apart

• Part of a free swinging magnet always points in the direction of north (like in a compass!)

Magnetic Poles• We call the ends of magnets “poles”• ALL magnets have a north (N) pole

and a south (S) pole. • Like poles repel• Opposite poles attract

Magnetic Poles

How it looks throughout the object

Electrons• Electrons are tiny negative particles

that surround an atom and are what give magnets their magnetic properties

• Spinning electrons produce a magnetic field

• When many electrons are spinning in the same directions those individual magnetic fields combine to form a stronger magnet