Increasing total magnetic moment: permanent magnets ONLY

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the methods for increasing the total magnetic moment of permanent magnets without the use of electricity or stronger magnets. John explores the potential of magnetizing a needle by rubbing it with an existing magnet to align its molecular structure. The conversation references historical insights from Edward Neville Da Costa Andrade's 1958 treatise, "The Early History of the Permanent Magnet," suggesting that this technique may have been previously explored. The conclusion is that while the method is theoretically sound, practical implementation details remain to be clarified.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of magnetic properties and molecular alignment
  • Familiarity with permanent magnet materials
  • Basic knowledge of magnetization techniques
  • Awareness of historical advancements in magnetism
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the process of magnetizing materials through friction
  • Study the molecular structure of ferromagnetic materials
  • Explore historical experiments in magnetism from the 19th century
  • Investigate modern techniques for enhancing permanent magnet strength
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, physicists, hobbyists in magnetism, and anyone interested in the historical and practical aspects of permanent magnet enhancement.

JeffEvarts
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This is possibly an engineering, rather than physics, question. (Ooooooooo! Busted!)

John picks up a paperclip and notices that it has been (very weakly) magnetized... it attracts other paperclips, but only at ridiculously short distances. John wishes to foster this interesting characteristic, but has no access to electricity or stronger magnets.

How should he proceed to eventually make a strong bar magnet?

I have no proof that such a thing is possible, but it seems to me that if I can rub a needle repeatedly with a magnet to organize the needle's molecules along an axis, without losing the original magnet's magnetism, then perhaps it is. My bet is that someone, hundreds of years ago, had the same thought and a lot more time to experiment, so I would guess it's a long-solved problem.
 
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