Why Are Most Pieces of Iron Not Magnetic?

[blufor79]

Homework Statement

Iron is a metal that exhibits magnetic properties, but most pieces of iron are not magnetic. Why?

Homework Equations

none

The Attempt at a Solution

I have no idea. I am very confused.

 

[tiny-tim]

welcome to pf!

hi blufor79! welcome to pf!

hint: what causes magnetism in a piece of iron? and what decides the direction of the magnetism?

 

[blufor79]

i am guessing its the magnetic field caused by the flow of electrons in the iron. and i know using the right hand rule you can find the direction of the magnetism

 

[tiny-tim]

what flow? where are they going?

and what is the direction of magnetism in, say, an iron nail?