Magnetism is everywhere around us - from the magnets on...
Physics109 views·Updated 1 Sept 2026·5 pagesMagnetism and Electromagnetism Explained
Charlotte@charlotte26
1 / 5
1
of 5
Magnetism Basics
Think of magnets as having two distinct personalities at opposite ends - the north pole and south pole. Just like people, opposites attract whilst similar personalities clash.
Like poles repel (N-N or S-S push away from each other) whilst unlike poles attract (N-S pull together). The magnetic force is strongest right at the poles and works as a non-contact force - meaning magnets don't need to touch to affect each other.
Only certain metals respond to magnets: iron, steel, cobalt and nickel. These are called magnetic materials, and they're the reason your steel scissors stick to a magnet but your plastic ruler doesn't.
Key Tip: The magnetic force gets weaker as you move further from the poles - that's why magnets work best when they're close together.
2
of 5
Types of Magnets
Permanent magnets are like that reliable friend who never changes. Made from magnetic materials, they always maintain their magnetic properties and constantly produce their own magnetic field.
Induced magnets are more like fair-weather friends - they only become magnetic when placed near another magnet. Remove the magnetic field, and they quickly lose their magnetism.
This difference explains why some materials become temporarily magnetic when near a magnet but return to normal when moved away.
Remember: Permanent magnets keep their magnetism; induced magnets only "borrow" it temporarily.
3
of 5
Magnetic Fields and Testing
To test if something is truly magnetic, try this: a permanent magnet can both attract AND repel other magnets, but it can only attract magnetic materials. If it repels, you've definitely got a magnet on your hands.
Magnetic fields are invisible areas around magnets where their force operates. We can detect these using a magnetic compass - essentially a tiny bar magnet that rotates to point towards magnetic north.
Electromagnets (also called solenoids) are brilliant because you can switch them on and off. They're made by wrapping wire in a coil and passing current through it. Add an iron core, and you've massively boosted the magnetic field strength.
Cool Fact: Earth itself is like a giant magnet with an iron and nickel core, which is why compasses work!
4
of 5
The Motor Effect and Electric Motors
The motor effect might sound complicated, but it's actually quite straightforward - when you pass current through a wire in a magnetic field, the wire experiences a force that pushes it at right angles.
This force follows the equation: force = magnetic flux density × current × length. More current or stronger magnetic field equals more force.
Electric motors use this principle brilliantly. A coil of wire sits in a magnetic field, and when current flows through it, the coil rotates. The clever bit is the commutator - it switches the current direction every half turn, keeping the motor spinning in the same direction.
Real-World Connection: This same principle powers everything from your electric toothbrush to electric cars!
5
of 5
Fleming's Left Hand Rule and Transformers
Fleming's left hand rule is your go-to memory aid for working out directions in the motor effect. Your thumb shows movement direction, forefinger shows the magnetic field (north to south), and your second finger shows current direction (positive to negative).
The force is strongest when current flows at 90° to the magnetic field. If they're parallel, there's no motor effect at all.
Transformers are incredibly useful devices that change voltage in alternating current. They use two coils wound around an iron core - when alternating current flows through the primary coil, it creates a changing magnetic field that induces a different voltage in the secondary coil.
Essential Knowledge: Transformers only work with alternating current because they need the constantly changing magnetic field to function.
We thought you’d never ask...
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Similar content
Most popular content in Physics
9PhysicsPhysics paper 2 notes
physics aqa gcse paper 2 combined higher notes
111,26510
PhysicsPhysics Paper 2 Essentials
Master key concepts for AQA Combined Physics Paper 2, including electromagnetic waves, mechanics, forces, and motion. This comprehensive summary covers essential topics like wave properties, Newton's laws, and the motor effect, ensuring you're well-prepared for your exam.
1116,088940
PhysicsForces and Motion Overview
Explore key concepts in Forces and Motion, including Hooke's Law, velocity, acceleration, and the principles of moments. This summary covers essential topics such as the relationship between force and extension, terminal velocity, and the impact of safety devices in physics. Ideal for AQA Physics Unit 5 revision.
109,292875
PhysicsGCSE Physics Practical Experiments
Explore essential GCSE Physics practicals for AQA, covering key concepts such as Hooke's Law, wave properties, thermal insulation, and electrical circuits. This comprehensive guide includes step-by-step procedures, variables, and safety considerations for each experiment, ensuring a thorough understanding of practical applications in physics.
1111,440477
Physicsphysics paper 2 foundation notes
aqa combined science physics paper 2 foundation notes
111,34138
PhysicsSummary of RP Physics paper 2
AQA GCSE Combined Science and Triple (Single) Science Summary of Required Practicals for Paper 2
114878
PhysicsPhysics paper 1 and paper 2
Detailed mind maps
1172912
ChemistryBTEC Applied Science Unit 1 Overview
Comprehensive resource for Year 12 students pursuing a Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science. This booklet covers essential topics including cell structure, chemical properties, and wave theory, providing clear explanations and key concepts to aid in your studies and exam preparation.
125,511127
PhysicsPhysics Paper 2 Notes GCSE
Concise notes for Edexcel Physics Paper 2 (combined & triple science)
113319
Most popular content
9
SociologySociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision
Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.
1274,0402,306
SociologySociology of Education Overview
Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.
12103,2013,044
BiologyA-Level Biology Year 1 Overview
Comprehensive summary of AQA A-Level Biology Year 1, covering key topics such as cellular structure, protein synthesis, immune response, gas exchange, and more. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological concepts. Includes detailed insights into cellular processes, biological classification, and the circulatory system.
1215,171702
BiologyAQA Biology: Key Concepts
Explore essential AQA Biology topics including Photosynthesis, Respiration, Homeostasis, Genetics, and Ecology. This comprehensive knowledge organizer covers key concepts such as energy transfer, hormonal control, and genetic variation, providing a solid foundation for your studies. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological processes.
109,168314
MathsComprehensive Maths Concepts
Explore essential mathematical concepts including powers, geometry, statistics, and probability. This resource features 65 pages of detailed explanations, diagrams, and examples to enhance your understanding of topics such as right triangles, volume calculations, and data representation. Ideal for students seeking to strengthen their numeracy skills and grasp complex mathematical principles.
1180,3376,327
PhysicsPhysics paper 2 notes
physics aqa gcse paper 2 combined higher notes
111,26510
Biologybiology paper 1
all notes
112,60938
English LanguageLanguage Paper 1 Strategies
Master the AQA English Language Paper 1 with this comprehensive guide. Explore key strategies for language and structural analysis, critical evaluation, and creative writing. Learn how to effectively analyze texts, utilize literary techniques, and enhance your writing skills to excel in your exams.
1128,745902
Chemistrychem paper 1
higher
112,26546
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha KlichAndroid user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
AnnaiOS user
Physics109 views·Updated 1 Sept 2026·5 pagesMagnetism and Electromagnetism Explained
Charlotte@charlotte26
Magnetism is everywhere around us - from the magnets on your fridge to the motors in your phone's vibration. Understanding how magnets work and how electricity can create magnetic fields opens up a whole world of physics that powers most...
1
of 5
Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Magnetism Basics
Think of magnets as having two distinct personalities at opposite ends - the north pole and south pole. Just like people, opposites attract whilst similar personalities clash.
Like poles repel (N-N or S-S push away from each other) whilst unlike poles attract (N-S pull together). The magnetic force is strongest right at the poles and works as a non-contact force - meaning magnets don't need to touch to affect each other.
Only certain metals respond to magnets: iron, steel, cobalt and nickel. These are called magnetic materials, and they're the reason your steel scissors stick to a magnet but your plastic ruler doesn't.
Key Tip: The magnetic force gets weaker as you move further from the poles - that's why magnets work best when they're close together.
2
of 5Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Types of Magnets
Permanent magnets are like that reliable friend who never changes. Made from magnetic materials, they always maintain their magnetic properties and constantly produce their own magnetic field.
Induced magnets are more like fair-weather friends - they only become magnetic when placed near another magnet. Remove the magnetic field, and they quickly lose their magnetism.
This difference explains why some materials become temporarily magnetic when near a magnet but return to normal when moved away.
Remember: Permanent magnets keep their magnetism; induced magnets only "borrow" it temporarily.
3
of 5Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Magnetic Fields and Testing
To test if something is truly magnetic, try this: a permanent magnet can both attract AND repel other magnets, but it can only attract magnetic materials. If it repels, you've definitely got a magnet on your hands.
Magnetic fields are invisible areas around magnets where their force operates. We can detect these using a magnetic compass - essentially a tiny bar magnet that rotates to point towards magnetic north.
Electromagnets (also called solenoids) are brilliant because you can switch them on and off. They're made by wrapping wire in a coil and passing current through it. Add an iron core, and you've massively boosted the magnetic field strength.
Cool Fact: Earth itself is like a giant magnet with an iron and nickel core, which is why compasses work!
4
of 5Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The Motor Effect and Electric Motors
The motor effect might sound complicated, but it's actually quite straightforward - when you pass current through a wire in a magnetic field, the wire experiences a force that pushes it at right angles.
This force follows the equation: force = magnetic flux density × current × length. More current or stronger magnetic field equals more force.
Electric motors use this principle brilliantly. A coil of wire sits in a magnetic field, and when current flows through it, the coil rotates. The clever bit is the commutator - it switches the current direction every half turn, keeping the motor spinning in the same direction.
Real-World Connection: This same principle powers everything from your electric toothbrush to electric cars!
5
of 5Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Fleming's Left Hand Rule and Transformers
Fleming's left hand rule is your go-to memory aid for working out directions in the motor effect. Your thumb shows movement direction, forefinger shows the magnetic field (north to south), and your second finger shows current direction (positive to negative).
The force is strongest when current flows at 90° to the magnetic field. If they're parallel, there's no motor effect at all.
Transformers are incredibly useful devices that change voltage in alternating current. They use two coils wound around an iron core - when alternating current flows through the primary coil, it creates a changing magnetic field that induces a different voltage in the secondary coil.
Essential Knowledge: Transformers only work with alternating current because they need the constantly changing magnetic field to function.
We thought you’d never ask...
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Similar content
Most popular content in Physics
9PhysicsPhysics paper 2 notes
physics aqa gcse paper 2 combined higher notes
111,26510
PhysicsPhysics Paper 2 Essentials
Master key concepts for AQA Combined Physics Paper 2, including electromagnetic waves, mechanics, forces, and motion. This comprehensive summary covers essential topics like wave properties, Newton's laws, and the motor effect, ensuring you're well-prepared for your exam.
1116,088940
PhysicsForces and Motion Overview
Explore key concepts in Forces and Motion, including Hooke's Law, velocity, acceleration, and the principles of moments. This summary covers essential topics such as the relationship between force and extension, terminal velocity, and the impact of safety devices in physics. Ideal for AQA Physics Unit 5 revision.
109,292875
PhysicsGCSE Physics Practical Experiments
Explore essential GCSE Physics practicals for AQA, covering key concepts such as Hooke's Law, wave properties, thermal insulation, and electrical circuits. This comprehensive guide includes step-by-step procedures, variables, and safety considerations for each experiment, ensuring a thorough understanding of practical applications in physics.
1111,440477
Physicsphysics paper 2 foundation notes
aqa combined science physics paper 2 foundation notes
111,34138
PhysicsSummary of RP Physics paper 2
AQA GCSE Combined Science and Triple (Single) Science Summary of Required Practicals for Paper 2
114878
PhysicsPhysics paper 1 and paper 2
Detailed mind maps
1172912
ChemistryBTEC Applied Science Unit 1 Overview
Comprehensive resource for Year 12 students pursuing a Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science. This booklet covers essential topics including cell structure, chemical properties, and wave theory, providing clear explanations and key concepts to aid in your studies and exam preparation.
125,511127
PhysicsPhysics Paper 2 Notes GCSE
Concise notes for Edexcel Physics Paper 2 (combined & triple science)
113319
Most popular content
9SociologySociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision
Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.
1274,0402,306
SociologySociology of Education Overview
Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.
12103,2013,044
BiologyA-Level Biology Year 1 Overview
Comprehensive summary of AQA A-Level Biology Year 1, covering key topics such as cellular structure, protein synthesis, immune response, gas exchange, and more. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological concepts. Includes detailed insights into cellular processes, biological classification, and the circulatory system.
1215,171702
BiologyAQA Biology: Key Concepts
Explore essential AQA Biology topics including Photosynthesis, Respiration, Homeostasis, Genetics, and Ecology. This comprehensive knowledge organizer covers key concepts such as energy transfer, hormonal control, and genetic variation, providing a solid foundation for your studies. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological processes.
109,168314
MathsComprehensive Maths Concepts
Explore essential mathematical concepts including powers, geometry, statistics, and probability. This resource features 65 pages of detailed explanations, diagrams, and examples to enhance your understanding of topics such as right triangles, volume calculations, and data representation. Ideal for students seeking to strengthen their numeracy skills and grasp complex mathematical principles.
1180,3376,327
PhysicsPhysics paper 2 notes
physics aqa gcse paper 2 combined higher notes
111,26510
Biologybiology paper 1
all notes
112,60938
English LanguageLanguage Paper 1 Strategies
Master the AQA English Language Paper 1 with this comprehensive guide. Explore key strategies for language and structural analysis, critical evaluation, and creative writing. Learn how to effectively analyze texts, utilize literary techniques, and enhance your writing skills to excel in your exams.
1128,745902
Chemistrychem paper 1
higher
112,26546
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha KlichAndroid user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
AnnaiOS user