Properties of Magnets & Earth's Field

Understanding Magnetic Fields

A magnetic field is a region around a magnet where magnetic forces can be detected. It is invisible but can be visualized using tools like a compass needle or iron filings.

Magnetic fields are created by magnets and electric currents. They have both direction and strength.

Properties of Magnets

• Poles: Magnets have two poles: North and South. Opposite poles attract, while like poles repel.
• Magnetic Field Lines: These lines show the direction of the magnetic force. They emerge from the North pole and enter the South pole.
• Field Strength: The closer the field lines, the stronger the magnetic field.

Visualizing Magnetic Fields

You can visualize magnetic fields using:

• Iron Filings: Sprinkle iron filings around a magnet. They align along the magnetic field lines, showing the field's shape.
• Compass Needle: A compass needle aligns itself along the magnetic field lines, pointing from the North to the South pole.

Earth's Magnetic Field

The Earth itself acts like a giant magnet with a magnetic field extending into space. This field is similar to that of a bar magnet.

• Magnetic Poles: The Earth's magnetic poles are not the same as its geographic poles. The magnetic North pole is near the geographic South pole and vice versa.
• Magnetic Declination: The angle between geographic north and magnetic north is called magnetic declination. It varies by location.