Question on: SS1 Physics - Magnetism and Electromagnetism

Permanent magnets and electromagnets are two types of magnets with distinct characteristics and applications.

Similarities:

• Magnetic Field Generation: Both permanent magnets and electromagnets generate magnetic fields.

• Attraction and Repulsion: They exhibit attraction and repulsion based on their poles.

• Magnetic Properties: Both magnets can magnetise nearby magnetic materials.

Differences:

• Magnetism Generation: Permanent magnets have inherent magnetism due to their material composition, while electromagnets generate magnetism through the flow of electric current.

• Magnetism Control: The magnetism of permanent magnets cannot be easily controlled, while electromagnets can have their magnetic strength adjusted by varying the current.

• Strength: Permanent magnets generally have fixed magnetic strength, while the strength of an electromagnet can be adjusted as needed.