How to Determine the Charge Direction in Magnets
A magnet uses its magnetic field to exert force on other objects, such as nickel and steel. It responds to other magnetic fields, like that of the Earth or from another magnet. A magnet's force is focused in two directions, called the magnet's north and south poles. One is considered a positive charge, and the other negative. Two like charges repel each other, while opposites will attract each other. Discovering a magnet's poles is an exciting educational opportunity.
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Things You'll Need
- Compass
- Piece of paper
- Permanent marker
- Tape
- 2 bar magnets
- 2 strings, about 10 to 12 inches long
Instructions
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Determine which way is north using a compass. Tape a piece of paper to a table or the floor, and draw an arrow on the paper pointing north.
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2
Tie the end of a piece of string around the middle of one of the bar magnets. Repeat with the second piece of string and magnet. Grab the free ends of the strings, and hold one in each hand in front of you. Allow the magnets to hang freely.
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3
Observe as the magnets rotate slowly. They will each settle with their north poles facing north. Use the arrow on the paper to help you determine which end is the north pole.
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4
Confirm the north pole of the magnet. Once the magnets have settled pointing north, very slowly turn yourself around 180 degrees. The magnets should spin slowly and adjust their directions to keep their north poles pointing north.
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Mark each magnet's north pole with an "N" using your marker or a piece of tape. The opposite end is the magnet's south pole.
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Test your findings by laying both magnets on a table with the "N" sides facing each other. Slide the magnets together. Like charges repel each other, so the magnets should bounce away from each other. Turn one around 180 degrees so the south pole is facing the other magnet's north pole. The opposite sides should attract each other.
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References
- Photo Credit bolts image by Maksim Zinchenko from Fotolia.com
