Magnetic Field

invisible forces · magnetism · electricity · physics

Invisible pushing power. A magnetic field is like an invisible force field that surrounds every magnet. You can't see it, but you can feel it when two magnets push or pull on each other, or when a magnet picks up a piece of iron.

Made by moving charges. Magnetic fields don't just come from magnets. They're also created whenever electricity flows and moves around. This is how electromagnets work, turning electricity on and off to create powerful magnetic fields that scientists can control.

Earth has one too. Our entire planet is surrounded by a giant magnetic field created deep inside Earth. This field protects us from harmful energy from the sun and makes compass needles point north.

Twists and attracts. Magnetic fields twist magnets to line them up in a certain direction and can attract magnetic materials like iron toward them. They can also push magnets away if the poles face the wrong direction.

Creates electricity. When a magnetic field changes, it can create electric currents. This is how generators work, turning motion into electricity that powers our homes and devices.