Magnetism (Edexcel GCSE Physics)

The Law of Magnetism

Poles of a Magnet

• The ends of a magnet are called poles

• Magnets have two poles: a north and a south

Poles of a Magnet

The Law of Magnetism

• When two magnets are held close together, there will be an attractive or repulsive force between the magnets depending on how they are arranged:

Opposite poles attract; like poles repel

• The Law of Magnetism states that:

  • Two like poles (S and S or N and N) repel each other

  • Two unlike poles (S and N) attract each other

• The attraction or repulsion between two magnetic poles is an example of a non-contact force