Magnets & Magnetic Fields

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to magnets and magnetic fields, including definitions of important concepts and characteristics of magnetism.

Magnetic Force

A force of attraction or repulsion between the two poles of magnets.

Magnetite

A naturally occurring mineral composed of iron oxide, historically used for making magnetized compass needles.

Magnetic Field

The area surrounding a magnet where magnetic force can be felt, attracting or repelling other magnets and certain metals.

Magnetic Poles

The two ends of a magnet where the magnetic force is strongest; opposite poles attract and like poles repel.

Magnetosphere

The area around the Earth that is influenced by the Earth's magnetic field, protects Earth from solar radiation.

Ferromagnetic materials

Materials like iron, nickel, and cobalt that can become magnetized due to unpaired electrons.

Temporary Magnet

A magnet that loses its magnetism after leaving a magnetic field.

Permanent Magnet

A magnet that maintains its magnetic properties after being removed from a magnetic field.

Aurora Borealis

Natural light display caused by the interaction of solar wind with Earth’s magnetosphere.

Magnetic Field Lines

Imaginary lines that represent the direction and strength of a magnetic field.