Science
How do magnets work?
Magnets work because of the aligned motion of electrons inside them, which creates a magnetic field. That invisible field pulls on certain metals (like iron) and attracts or repels other magnets, depending on their poles.
See it in motion.
Watch a 2-minute animated lesson that shows exactly how magnets works.
Step by step
- 1Moving and spinning electrons create tiny magnetic fields.
- 2In a magnet, many align in the same direction, adding up to a strong field.
- 3Opposite poles (N–S) attract; like poles (N–N) repel.
- 4The field is strongest at the poles and is invisible but real.
Frequently asked questions
- Why do magnets attract some metals?
- Metals like iron have electrons that align with the magnet's field, so they get pulled in.
- Why do like poles repel?
- Their magnetic fields point in opposing directions, pushing each other apart.
- What is a magnetic field?
- The invisible region around a magnet where its force acts on other magnets and magnetic materials.