Permanent Magnet vs. Electromagnet: What's the Difference?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the differences between permanent magnets and electromagnets, exploring their definitions, properties, and methods of magnetization. Participants also touch on related topics such as the materials that can be magnetized and the processes involved in creating magnets.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants explain that a permanent magnet retains its magnetic field without an external power source, while an electromagnet requires electric current to generate a magnetic field.
  • There is a discussion about the materials suitable for making permanent magnets, with some stating that iron can be magnetized while others argue that steel is necessary due to its remanence.
  • One participant describes a method for creating a permanent magnet by heating iron and striking it, while others discuss the stroking method for magnetizing steel objects.
  • Participants express uncertainty about the definitions and properties of magnetic materials, with questions raised about the magnetization of copper and the concept of remanence.
  • Some participants clarify that permanent magnets do not have current flowing through them, though there are discussions about bound currents in magnetic domains.
  • There are multiple inquiries about how to create both permanent magnets and electromagnets at home, with varying responses regarding the feasibility and methods.
  • One participant mentions the need for a strong electromagnet to effectively magnetize materials, while others provide anecdotal experiences with magnetization techniques.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains multiple competing views regarding the properties of materials suitable for magnetization, the methods for creating magnets, and the definitions of magnetic phenomena. No consensus is reached on several points, particularly regarding the suitability of iron versus steel for permanent magnets.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of understanding about the concepts discussed, indicating potential gaps in knowledge or differing interpretations of terms like remanence. Some statements rely on assumptions about material properties and methods that are not universally agreed upon.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals exploring the fundamentals of magnetism, students seeking clarification on magnetic materials, and those curious about practical methods for creating magnets.

  • #121
Xidike said:
if a conductor is placed in magnetic field then How can magnet cause the flow of current in that conductor ?

GOOGLE IT!

You are really starting to annoy people

Dave
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #122
Xidike said:
if a conductor is placed in magnetic field then How can magnet cause the flow of current in that conductor ?
It will cause his ticket machine to burst into flames.
You are sussed my boy.
 
  • #123
I think we're done here.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
3K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
4K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K