Magnetism

physics · invisible forces · electricity · energy

Invisible magnetic field. Every magnet is surrounded by an invisible field of energy that can attract or push away other magnets and metal objects, even without touching them.

Connected to electricity. Magnetism and electricity are two sides of the same coin, called electromagnetism. Moving electricity creates magnetism, and moving magnets create electricity.

Earth is a magnet. Our planet itself acts like a giant magnet, with a magnetic north and south pole that help compasses point the right direction.

Some rocks are magnetic. Certain rocks and minerals, like magnetite, are naturally magnetic and have been used by humans for thousands of years to navigate.

Electrons create it all. Tiny spinning electrons inside atoms create magnetism, and when many electrons spin the same way, their magnetic forces add up to make strong magnets.