How Magnets Work

Understanding the science of magnetism and how magnetic forces shape our world.

Magnets are one of nature’s most fascinating phenomena. They create invisible forces that attract certain metals and influence everything from industrial machinery to everyday technology. Understanding how magnets work helps you choose the right products for your application and appreciate the science behind their power.

What Is Magnetism?

Magnetism is a physical force produced by moving electric charges — typically the movement of electrons around atomic nuclei.
In most materials, these movements cancel each other out, but in magnetic materials such as iron, nickel, cobalt, and certain alloys, the electron spins align, creating a strong, unified magnetic field.

This alignment of tiny atomic magnets is what gives a magnet its strength and direction.

How Magnetic Fields Work

Every magnet generates a magnetic field, an invisible area of force that extends from one end (the north pole) to the other (the south pole).
The magnetic field is strongest near the poles and weaker farther away. When another magnetic or ferromagnetic object enters this field, it experiences an attractive or repulsive force depending on its polarity.

You can visualise magnetic fields using iron filings — they naturally align along the field lines, forming curved patterns that reveal how the field flows between poles.

Magnetic Poles Explained

All magnets have two poles — a north and a south.

Like poles repel each other (north vs. north or south vs. south).
Opposite poles attract each other (north to south).

This behaviour forms the basis of all magnetic interactions. Even if you cut a magnet in half, each piece will still contain both a north and south pole.

Permanent vs. Temporary Magnets

Magnets come in different types depending on how long they retain their magnetism:

Permanent Magnets – Made from materials such as neodymium, ferrite, alnico, or samarium cobalt. These magnets maintain their magnetic properties indefinitely unless exposed to extreme heat, strong opposing fields, or physical damage.
Temporary Magnets – Materials like soft iron that become magnetic only when placed within a magnetic field, losing magnetism once the field is removed.
Electromagnets – Created when electric current flows through a wire coil wrapped around an iron core. Their magnetism can be turned on or off by controlling the electric current.

Magnetic Strength and Material Types

Different magnetic materials offer varying strength, stability, and temperature resistance:

Neodymium (NdFeB) magnets are the strongest type of permanent magnet, ideal for compact designs and high-performance applications.
Ferrite (Ceramic) magnets are cost-effective and corrosion-resistant, making them suitable for outdoor or large-scale use.
Alnico magnets combine strength with excellent temperature stability.
Samarium Cobalt (SmCo) magnets provide high magnetic power and outstanding heat resistance, often used in motors and aerospace systems.

Learn more in our Magnet Materials Explained guide.

Magnetic Domains and Alignment

Inside a magnetic material are microscopic regions called domains, each acting like a tiny magnet with its own north and south pole.
When the domains are randomly aligned, their forces cancel out. When a strong magnetising field is applied, the domains align in the same direction — this alignment is what produces a powerful permanent magnet.

Factors That Affect Magnetic Strength

Several environmental and material factors influence a magnet’s performance:

Temperature: Heat can reduce or even eliminate magnetism if it exceeds the Curie temperature.
Distance: Magnetic force decreases rapidly with distance.
Material Composition: The density and structure of the magnetic material determine how easily it can be magnetised.
Demagnetising Fields: Exposure to opposing magnetic forces can weaken a magnet over time.

Magnets in Everyday Life

Magnets play a vital role in modern technology. They are found in:

Motors and generators — converting electrical energy to mechanical movement.
Speakers and microphones — translating sound into electrical signals and vice versa.
Medical devices — including MRI scanners.
Magnetic fastenings — used in furniture, clothing, and packaging.
Sensors, tools, and machinery — across almost every industry.

Summary

Magnets work by aligning microscopic magnetic domains to create a powerful, stable magnetic field.
Understanding how magnetism operates — from magnetic poles and fields to material behaviour — helps you select the most effective magnet for your application, whether industrial, educational, or everyday use.