Question concerning the mechanics of a magnet's attractive force

[BernardRio]

Homework Statement

Question concerning the mechanics

Relevant Equations

no equation

Does a force exerted by a magnet change if we do not change the distance between a magnet and the body, but change the direction of the magnet (tilt)?

 

[PeroK]

You need to attempt this question yourself. What do you think?

By the way, why no equation?

 

[berkeman]

Does a force exerted by a magnet change if we do not change the distance between a magnet and the body, but change the direction of the magnet (tilt)?

What shape magnet? Horseshoe magnet, bar magnet, cylindrical magnet? Try using Google Images to find images of the lines of force coming out of the poles of the type of magnet you are asking about. See if that helps...

 

[kuruman]

Does a force exerted by a magnet change if we do not change the distance between a magnet and the body, but change the direction of the magnet (tilt)?

I think the answer depends on what the "body" is.

Consider an actual physical situation, then ask the question again. For example, you have a bar magnet and an iron rod at some distance apart with their axes along the same line. Rotate the magnet about its mid point by 180^o. Does the force that the magnet exerts on the rod change? What if the iron rod is replaced with an identical magnet, initially oriented so that the north poles of the two face each other, and then one of the magnets is rotated?

Interesting question: You are given two identical-looking bars and you are told that one is a piece of soft iron and the other a bar magnet. How can you tell which is which?