Exploring Magnetism & Energy: How Does it Work?

In summary, when a magnet is used to lift a paperclip, it gains gravitational potential energy. This energy comes from the alignment of magnetic domains in the paperclip caused by the proximity of the magnet. This situation is not analogous to gravity, as gravity involves monopoles while magnetism involves dipoles. However, by considering two very long bar magnets arranged closely, the force can be similar to that of gravity.
  • #1
Chris
8
0
When a magnet is used to lift up a paperclip, clearly it gains gravitational potential energy. Where does this energy come from? Does the magnet lose energy to the paperclip? Does the magnet regain this energy when the paperclip is removed from the magnetic field? I have never heard of the phrase "magnetic potential energy"! :confused:
Thanks in advance for any insight anyone can provide!

Chris Carter
 
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  • #2
Nevertheless, there is such a thing. Magnetic charges (monopoles) do not exist independently; the most elementary magnetic charge is a dipole. Since dipole fields are more complicated than say the electric field from a single charge, they, and their energy formulas don't appear in the most elementary textbooks. So most people do not run into the concept of magnetic potential energy.
 
  • #3
Thanks krab.
So is this situation (paperclip in magnetic field) analagous to that of a mass in a gravitational field, in terms of energy transfers?
 
  • #4
Macroscopically, almost...

Magnets might cause the paperclip to rotate, (but not gravity). So there is extra potential energy if the paperclip is previously magnetized, and if the paper clip and magnet are not aligned. The position of both poles (whether you use a bar or a horse shoe for example) might also come into play.
 
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  • #5
To amplify on Gonzolo: The proximity of the magnet to the paper clip changes the paper clip, lining the magnetic domains up. In this sense, the situation is not analogous to gravity. The reason is that the paper clip is a "soft" ferromagnet; it magnetizes when another magnet is nearby, but demagnetizes if it is taken out of the external magnetic field. Gravity is more analogous to a situation of two permanent magnets. (Permanent magnets are "hard".) Except that in gravity there are only monopoles, while in magnetism therefore only dipoles. You can get round this problem by considering two very long bar magnets arranged N-S to N-S so they are almost touching. If they are sufficiently long, then you can neglect the outboard poles and consider the almost-touching poles alone. These will act like monopoles, and for short distances will have a force law similar to two gravitating bodies.
 
  • #6
Thanks guys! :smile:
 

FAQ: Exploring Magnetism & Energy: How Does it Work?

1) What is magnetism and how does it work?

Magnetism is a natural phenomenon that refers to the force exerted by certain materials, such as iron or nickel, that attracts or repels other objects. This force is created by the alignment of electrons within the material, which creates a magnetic field. This field can interact with other magnetic fields, creating movement and energy.

2) How do magnets create energy?

Magnets can create energy through the process of induction. When a magnetic field moves across a conductor, such as a wire, it can create an electrical current. This current can then be used to power devices or create other forms of energy.

3) What are some real-world applications of magnetism and energy?

Magnetism and energy have many practical applications in our everyday lives. Some examples include electric motors, generators, speakers, MRI machines, and magnetic levitation trains. These technologies harness the power of magnets and energy to create movement, sound, and electricity.

4) How has our understanding of magnetism and energy evolved over time?

Our understanding of magnetism and energy has evolved greatly over time. From ancient civilizations using lodestones for navigation to modern scientists discovering the relationship between electricity and magnetism, we have gained a better understanding of the fundamental principles that govern these natural phenomena. With advancements in technology, we continue to deepen our understanding and find new applications for magnetism and energy.

5) How is magnetism and energy related to each other?

Magnetism and energy are closely related. As mentioned earlier, magnets can create energy through induction. Similarly, electricity can also create a magnetic field. This relationship is described by Maxwell's equations, which explain how electric and magnetic fields interact and propagate. In short, magnetism and energy are two sides of the same coin, with one often being able to create or influence the other.

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