Attraction between a magnetic field and iron

In summary, The force of attraction between iron and a magnet is not directly related to the strength of the magnetic field on either side of the iron object. Instead, it is the alignment of internal magnetic dipoles within the iron that causes it to behave like a magnet and interact with the external magnetic field. This phenomenon is known as paramagnetism. There is no simple equation to calculate the force, as it depends on the specific properties of the iron and the magnet.
  • #1
Anthony physics
5
0
This seems simple but i cannot find an answer anywhere. First off: is iron attracted to a magnet because the field strength on the side of the iron object closest to the magnet is stronger than the one furthest? And if this is true, how can one use this "differential" magnetic field to calculate the force on the iron object? If this is not the way to do it, how can i calculate the force regardless? Is there an equation or something?
Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
is iron attracted to a magnet because the field strength on the side of the iron object closest to the magnet is stronger than the one furthest?
No.
The external field aligns the internal magnetic dipoles: the lump of iron becomes a magnet and then interacts with the external field like any magnet would.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paramagnetism
 

Related to Attraction between a magnetic field and iron

What is a magnetic field?

A magnetic field is a region in space where magnetic forces can be detected. It is created by the movement of electrically charged particles, such as electrons. The strength and direction of a magnetic field can be represented by magnetic field lines.

How does a magnetic field interact with iron?

Iron is a ferromagnetic material, which means it is easily magnetized and has magnetic properties. When a magnetic field is present, the iron atoms align themselves in the same direction as the field, creating a strong attraction between the two.

Why does a magnetic field attract iron?

This attraction is due to the magnetic dipole moments of the iron atoms. These moments, which are created by the alignment of the iron's electrons, are attracted to the external magnetic field, causing the iron to move towards it.

How does the strength of the magnetic field affect the attraction to iron?

The strength of the magnetic field directly affects the strength of the attraction to iron. A stronger magnetic field will create a greater force on the iron atoms, resulting in a stronger attraction. This is why stronger magnets can lift heavier objects made of iron.

Can a magnetic field repel iron?

Yes, in certain situations a magnetic field can repel iron. This can happen when the magnetic field is strong enough to overcome the natural magnetic properties of the iron. In these cases, the iron will be repelled and move away from the magnetic field.

Similar threads

Replies
21
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
870
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
7
Views
397
Replies
32
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
2
Replies
43
Views
1K
Replies
27
Views
2K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
60
Views
3K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
5
Views
417
Back
Top