Why Are Most Pieces of Iron Not Magnetic?

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    Concept Magnetism
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Most pieces of iron are not magnetic due to the alignment of their atomic magnetic moments, which can cancel each other out. Magnetism in iron is primarily caused by the flow of electrons and their spins, which create a magnetic field. The direction of magnetism is determined by the orientation of these electron spins. In an iron nail, for example, the magnetic domains may not be aligned, resulting in an overall non-magnetic state. Understanding these principles clarifies why not all iron exhibits magnetic properties.
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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.


 
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welcome to pf!

hi blufor79! welcome to pf! :smile:

hint: what causes magnetism in a piece of iron? and what decides the direction of the magnetism? :wink:
 
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
 
what flow? where are they going?

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

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