GCSE Physics Tutorial: Attraction and Repulsion of Permanent Magnets

The behaviour of permanent magnets is a fascinating aspect of magnetism. These magnets exhibit distinct patterns of attraction and repulsion based on the arrangement of their poles. Let's delve into the concepts of attraction and repulsion between unlike and like poles of permanent magnets.

Attraction and Repulsion of Unlike Poles:

When two permanent magnets come close to each other, the behaviour of their unlike poles (north and south) is as follows:

• Attraction: Unlike poles of magnets are attracted to each other. The north pole of one magnet is attracted to the south pole of another magnet. This attraction occurs due to the alignment of the magnetic domains within the magnets.

• Example: When you bring the north pole of one magnet near the south pole of another, you will feel a noticeable force pulling them together.

Attraction and Repulsion of Like Poles:

The interaction between like poles (north and north, or south and south) of permanent magnets follows different patterns:

• Repulsion: Like poles of magnets repel each other. The north pole of one magnet repels the north pole of another magnet, and the same is true for the south poles. This repulsion occurs due to the alignment of the magnetic domains in such a way that they oppose each other.

• Example: If you attempt to bring two north poles of magnets close together, you will feel a strong force pushing them apart.

Magnetic Field Lines:

The behaviour of attraction and repulsion between poles can be visualised using magnetic field lines. Field lines emanate from the north pole and loop around to the south pole, forming a continuous loop.

• For unlike poles, the field lines curve towards each other, indicating attraction.

• For like poles, the field lines curve away from each other, indicating repulsion.

Applications:

Understanding the behaviour of attraction and repulsion between unlike and like poles of permanent magnets is crucial in various applications, such as designing magnetic locks, electric motors, and generators.

Conclusion:

The behaviour of permanent magnets when it comes to attraction and repulsion is a fundamental concept in magnetism. Unlike poles attract each other, while like poles repel each other. This behaviour is governed by the alignment of magnetic domains within the magnets and can be visualised using magnetic field lines. This knowledge has practical applications in a wide range of technologies and devices.

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