Magnetism Conceptual Questions

*Answer these on another sheet of paper.

1.  Much like the static Electric force, there is a magnetic force between 2 magnets. How are the magnetic and electric forces similar? How are they different.

2.  electricity has positive and negative charges. What does a magnet have and how are they similar/different than electric charges?

3.  Is a paper clip typically magnetic? Why does a magnet attract the paper clip if the paper clip is not magnetic?

4.  The magnetic force equation is very similar to the static Electric force. Write your version of the magnetic force.

5.  How does a compass behave as you move it around a magnet. A compass aligns itself with the magnetic field lines. Draw a magnet and the field lines around it using the compass as a guide.

6.  If you break a magnet in half, what happens?

7.  The earth has a magnetic field, that’s why a compass points North. According to theory, why does this field exist?

8.  What is the polarity of the North pole (is it a magnetic North or South?)