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What is magnetism?

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Quick answer

Magnetism is a force that makes certain materials attract or repel each other, created by the motion of electric charges. A magnet has two poles — north and south — and is surrounded by an invisible magnetic field that pulls on magnetic materials like iron.

Key things to understand

  1. Magnetism comes from moving electric charges — at the atomic level, from the motion and spin of electrons.
  2. Every magnet has two poles: like poles (N-N or S-S) repel; opposite poles (N-S) attract.
  3. A magnetic field is the invisible region of influence around a magnet, strongest near the poles.
  4. Electricity and magnetism are deeply linked — a moving magnet makes electricity, and an electric current makes a magnetic field (electromagnetism).
  5. Earth itself acts like a giant magnet, which is why a compass needle points north.

People also ask

What's the link between electricity and magnetism?
They're two sides of one force, electromagnetism. A changing magnetic field creates an electric current, and an electric current creates a magnetic field — the principle behind motors and generators.
Why do magnets have two poles?
Every magnet has a north and a south pole. Cut a magnet in half and each piece becomes a smaller magnet with its own two poles — you can't isolate a single pole.
Why does a compass point north?
Earth behaves like a huge magnet, and a compass needle (a small magnet) aligns with Earth's magnetic field, pointing roughly toward the north.

Part of the guide: Energy & Electricity at Home →