Weakened Magnets? Diagnosing Magnetic Properties

[RandyTashjian]

Hello all,

First time poster and visitor here. I'm not sure if this is the right place to post this question, but I thought I might give it a try. The other day I came across something that puzzled me. I have one of those inexpensive wall cabinets in my bathroom from Target that comes with magnetic cabinet door latches. Granted, the unit is not engineered to perfection and the doors are not level, but somehow one of the doors opened on its own. That is to say, the door was in place and the magnet engaged but the door became unengaged and opened without any input. How can something like that happen? Can a magnet (in this case a cheap one I'm assuming) temporarily loose its magnetic properties? I've since tried to replay the scenario with various forms of physical shock (i.e., slamming doors and banging the walls) to no avail. Any explanation of this phenomenon would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!


Randy Tashjian, MD

 

[eljose79]

Hello Randy,

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I have some knowledge on the subject of magnets and their properties, and I would be happy to provide some insight into what may have caused your cabinet door to open on its own.

Firstly, it is important to understand that magnets have different strength levels, and the strength of a magnet depends on its size, shape, and composition. Inexpensive magnets, such as the one on your cabinet door, may not have a strong magnetic field compared to more expensive and powerful magnets.

With that being said, it is possible for a magnet to temporarily lose its magnetic properties. This can occur due to a phenomenon called demagnetization, which can happen when a magnet is subjected to strong external magnetic fields, high temperatures, or physical shock. In your case, it is possible that the physical shock from slamming doors and banging the walls could have caused the magnet to temporarily lose its magnetism, allowing the door to open.

Another factor to consider is the alignment of the magnet and the metal surface it is attracted to. If the magnet and metal surface are not perfectly aligned, there may be gaps or weak spots in the magnetic field, making it easier for the door to become unengaged.

In conclusion, it is likely that a combination of a weaker magnet and physical shock caused the cabinet door to open on its own. I hope this helps to explain the phenomenon you experienced. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

 

[astrokreng]

Hello Randy,

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It is certainly an interesting phenomenon and I can understand why it would puzzle you. I can offer some insights into the possible causes of this weakened magnet.

Firstly, it is important to note that magnets can lose their magnetic properties over time due to a process called demagnetization. This can happen due to exposure to high temperatures, strong magnetic fields, or physical shock. In your case, it is possible that the physical shock from the cabinet doors not being level could have caused some demagnetization.

Additionally, the strength of a magnet is also affected by its composition and quality. Cheaper magnets may not be as strong as higher quality ones, making them more susceptible to demagnetization.

Another factor to consider is the alignment of the magnetic domains within the magnet. When a magnet is manufactured, the magnetic domains are aligned in a specific direction to create a strong magnetic field. However, if the magnet is exposed to physical shock, these domains can become misaligned, resulting in a weakened magnetic field.

It is also worth noting that magnets can become temporarily weaker when exposed to high temperatures. So if your bathroom gets very hot and humid, this could also contribute to the weakened magnet.

In conclusion, it is possible that a combination of factors such as physical shock, poor quality magnet, and misalignment of magnetic domains could have caused the weakened magnet in your bathroom cabinet. I hope this helps to answer your question. If you have any further queries, please don't hesitate to ask.

Best regards,