Magnetic fields - AQAPoles of a magnet

Magnetism is due to the magnetic fields around magnets. The fields can be investigated by looking at the effects of the forces they exert on other magnets and magnetic materials.

Part of Combined ScienceMagnetism and electromagnetism

Poles of a magnet

A can exert a force on another nearby magnet. Magnets have two poles:

  • a
  • a

The force is strongest near the magnet's poles.

A bar magnet, with the north and south poles marked red and blue.

The rules of magnetism

Two magnets will either attract or repel each other in the following way:

  • like poles (N-N or S-S) repel
  • unlike poles (N-S or S-N) attract

Magnetic forces are - this means that magnets affect each other without touching.