Permanent & Induced Magnets — GCSE Physics Revision
Revise Permanent & Induced Magnets for GCSE Physics. Step-by-step explanation, worked examples, common mistakes and exam-style practice aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP.
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Go to ElectromagnetsWhat is Permanent & Induced Magnets?
A permanent magnet is a material that produces its own magnetic field and retains its magnetic properties (e.g., a bar magnet). An induced magnet is a material that becomes a magnet only when it is placed in a magnetic field. Soft iron is an example of a material that is easily magnetised but loses its magnetism quickly (used in electromagnets). Hard steel is used for permanent magnets as it retains its magnetism.
Board notes: Covered by all major boards (AQA, Edexcel, OCR). The distinction between permanent and induced magnetism is a key concept.
Step-by-step explanationWorked example
A permanent magnet is brought near a paperclip made of steel. What happens? Explain why. Solution: The paperclip will be attracted to the magnet. This is because the permanent magnet induces magnetism in the paperclip. The end of the paperclip closer to the magnet becomes the opposite pole, resulting in a force of attraction.
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Common mistakes
- 1Confusing permanent and induced magnetism. Permanent magnets are always magnetic; induced magnets are only magnetic temporarily.
- 2Thinking that any metal can be a magnet. Only ferromagnetic materials like iron, nickel, and cobalt can be strongly magnetised.
- 3Forgetting that induced magnetism always results in an attractive force. When a magnet is brought near a magnetic material, it induces the opposite pole, which causes attraction.
Permanent & Induced Magnets exam questions
Exam-style questions for Permanent & Induced Magnets with mark-scheme style solutions and timing practice. Aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP specifications.
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Step-by-step method
Step-by-step explanation
4 steps · Worked method for Permanent & Induced Magnets
Core concept
A permanent magnet is a material that produces its own magnetic field and retains its magnetic properties (e.g., a bar magnet). An induced magnet is a material that becomes a magnet only when it is pl…
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a permanent magnet and an induced magnet?
A permanent magnet creates its own magnetic field all the time. An induced magnet only becomes a magnet when it is in the presence of another magnetic field.
How can you make a permanent magnet?
You can make a permanent magnet by stroking a piece of hard steel with a permanent magnet several times in the same direction, or by placing it inside a coil of wire with a direct current flowing through it.