Magnet polarity determines how magnets interact with each other: like poles repel, and opposite poles attract.
Every magnet has two poles, typically referred to as North (N) and South (S). These poles are where the magnetic force is strongest. When you bring two magnets close together, their behavior is governed by the interaction of these poles.
Understanding Magnetic Interaction
The fundamental rule of magnet polarity, based on how magnets behave, is straightforward:
- Like poles repel: When two poles of the same type are brought near each other, they push away from each other. This means a North pole will repel another North pole, and a South pole will repel another South pole.
- Opposite poles attract: When two poles of different types are brought near each other, they pull towards each other and will connect if close enough. This means a North pole will attract a South pole.
This interaction is a core property of magnets and is responsible for many of their practical uses, from holding notes on a refrigerator to the operation of motors.
Pole Interaction Rules
To visualize this, consider the following interactions:
| Pole 1 | Pole 2 | Interaction |
|---|---|---|
| North | North | Repel (Push away) |
| South | South | Repel (Push away) |
| North | South | Attract (Pull together) |
| South | North | Attract (Pull together) |
Examples in Action
- Imagine holding two bar magnets. If you bring the ends marked 'N' together, you'll feel them pushing each other away. This is repulsion between like poles.
- If you then flip one magnet around so the 'N' end of one is near the 'S' end of the other, you'll feel them pulling towards each other, possibly clicking together. This is attraction between opposite poles.
As the reference states, "When you have more than one magnet, like (or same) poles repel, or push, each other. Opposite poles attract, or pull, each other. In other words, the north pole of one magnet will click together with the south pole of another magnet, and two north poles will push each other away." This describes the core mechanism of how magnet polarity works in terms of interaction.
