Simple phenomena of magnetism Flashcards – Cambridge IGCSE (9–1) Physics 0972 (Extended) (2026–2028)

What distinguishes magnetic from non-magnetic materials in terms of magnetisation?

A magnetic material can be magnetised; a non-magnetic material cannot.

Does an unmagnetised magnetic material have overall north and south poles?

No. Unlike a magnetised object, it has no overall north and south poles.

What effect can a nearby magnet have on the magnetisation of a magnetic material?

It can induce magnetism in the material.

Why does a magnet attract a magnetic material in which it induces magnetism?

The end nearer the magnet becomes the opposite pole.

What may happen to induced magnetism when the inducing magnet is removed?

The induced magnetism may be lost.

What is a magnetic field?

A region in which a magnetic pole experiences a force.

What determines the direction of a magnetic field at a point?

The direction of the force on a north pole placed at that point.

What do magnetic field lines represent?

The field’s pattern and direction.

What pattern and direction do field lines have outside a bar magnet?

They curve around both sides of the magnet, with arrows pointing from the north pole to the south pole.

What direction does the north-seeking end of a plotting compass needle indicate?

The local direction of the magnetic field.

How can a plotting compass be used to draw a magnetic field line?

Mark the needle direction at successive positions, moving the compass along that direction. Join the marks with a smooth line; arrows may show the needle direction.

How can iron filings be used to reveal the overall pattern of a magnetic field?

Sprinkle them around a magnet and gently tap the surface. The filings align with the field.

What can a plotting compass determine about a magnetic field that iron filings alone cannot?

The field's direction.

How does an electromagnet produce a magnetic field?

Electric current flows through a coil of wire.

What effect does a soft-iron core have on an electromagnet?

The coil magnetises the core, strengthening the magnetic effect.

What happens to a soft-iron core when the electromagnet’s current is switched off?

It loses most of its magnetism.

How does an electromagnetic crane pick up and release magnetic material?

It picks up material when switched on and releases it when switched off.

What does an electromagnet do in an electric bell?

It moves a mechanism.