Temperature Effects on Magnetism: Long-Term Impact

In summary, the effect of temperature on a magnet is that its magnetism will decrease due to heat. However, the long-term effect depends on the material. For neodymium magnets, heating it above 80C will result in a permanent loss of strength, but its curie temperature is higher at 300C. For samarium-cobalt magnets with a curie temperature of 800C, it is uncertain if it will continue to lose its properties slowly or stabilize after a period of time.
  • #1
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What is the effect of temperature on a Magnet. I am not talking about curie temp. Just a higher temperature than room temp, say 150C.
Magnetism will probably decrease due to heat. But what is the long term effect, say after a few months.
Will the Magnet be back to its full power when bought back to room temp.
 
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  • #2
Depends on the material. Neodymium magnets are quite sensitive to heat. If you heat one to more than about 80C it will lose some of it's strength permanantly but the curie temperature is a lot higher, about 300C.
 
  • #3
The material is samarium–cobalt magnet. curie temp 800C.
will the magnet continue to loose its property slowly or will it stabilize and hold after some period of time.
 

1. How does temperature affect the strength of a magnet?

Temperature can affect the strength of a magnet in two ways. First, at high temperatures, the thermal energy can cause the atoms in the magnet to vibrate more vigorously, disrupting the alignment of the magnetic domains and weakening the overall magnetic field. Second, at very low temperatures, the magnetic domains can become locked in place, resulting in a stronger magnetic field. However, this effect is only observed in certain types of magnets, such as those made from rare earth metals.

2. Can extreme temperatures permanently demagnetize a magnet?

Yes, extreme temperatures can permanently demagnetize a magnet. When a magnet is heated to its Curie temperature, which is different for each type of magnet, the thermal energy can cause the alignment of the magnetic domains to break down completely, resulting in a loss of magnetism. This effect is irreversible, and the magnet will not regain its magnetism even after being cooled down.

3. How does temperature affect the Curie temperature of a magnet?

The Curie temperature of a magnet is affected by its composition and structure. Generally, magnets with stronger magnetic fields, such as those made from rare earth metals, have higher Curie temperatures. Additionally, the Curie temperature of a magnet can be affected by impurities or defects in its structure, which can lower the temperature at which it becomes demagnetized.

4. Can temperature changes cause a magnet to lose its magnetism temporarily?

Yes, temperature changes can cause a magnet to lose its magnetism temporarily. When a magnet is heated, the thermal energy can disrupt the alignment of the magnetic domains, resulting in a decrease in magnetic strength. However, when the temperature decreases, the magnetism can return to its original strength, as long as the Curie temperature is not reached.

5. How does temperature affect the long-term stability of a magnet's magnetic field?

The long-term stability of a magnet's magnetic field can be affected by temperature in two ways. First, at high temperatures, the thermal energy can cause the atoms in the magnet to rearrange, resulting in a change in the magnetic field strength. Second, temperature fluctuations over time can cause the magnet's structure to expand and contract, resulting in a gradual decrease in magnetic strength. Therefore, it is important to consider the operating temperature range when selecting a magnet for long-term use.

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