Passing current through a magnet

In summary, passing a direct current through a magnet will result in a superimposed magnetic field due to the bound and induced currents. This can potentially change the residual magnetism of the material. AC current will also produce a superimposed magnetic field, but the effect on the residual magnetism may be different due to the oscillating nature of the current.
  • #1
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I think magnet has to be a conductor of electricity if is made of iron or steel. So, What happens when we pass a direct current through a magnet? What if we pass through AC? Does the passage of current effect the strength of the magnet?
 
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  • #2
The residual magnetism of a bar of iron,etc. is due to the current due to the electrons' movement around the atom, (the bound current), the induced current (free current) will produce a magnetic field that will be superimposed on the magnetic field due to the bound current and you will observe this superimposed magnetic field (AC or DC). Only thing is that a DC applied current and hence a non-oscillating magnetic field might change the residual magnetism of the material
 

1. What happens when you pass current through a magnet?

When current is passed through a magnet, it creates a magnetic field around the conductor. This magnetic field interacts with the existing magnetic field of the magnet, causing the magnet to move or rotate depending on the direction of the current.

2. Can passing current through a magnet demagnetize it?

Yes, passing current through a magnet can demagnetize it. This is because the magnetic field created by the current can disrupt the alignment of the atoms within the magnet, causing it to lose its magnetism.

3. How does the strength of the current affect the magnet?

The strength of the current passing through a magnet directly affects the strength of the magnetic field it creates. The stronger the current, the stronger the magnetic field and the more significant the effect on the magnet.

4. Is it possible to reverse the polarity of a magnet by passing current through it?

Yes, it is possible to reverse the polarity of a magnet by passing current through it. This is known as the "electromagnetic effect" and is commonly used in devices such as electromagnets and electric motors.

5. What are some practical applications of passing current through a magnet?

Passing current through a magnet has various practical applications, such as in electric motors, generators, and speakers. It is also used in magnetic levitation technology, MRI machines, and particle accelerators.

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