Sec. 1-2 Inside a magnet

Objectives N.1.2.1. Explain how an atom can behave like a magnet. N.1.2.2. Describe how magnetic domains are arranged in a magnet and a non-magnet. N.1.2.3. Explain how magnets can be changed.

The structure of The Atom Remember how the atom is structured? What is the center called? The nucleus. Which particles are in the nucleus? Protons and Neutrons What orbits the nucleus? Electrons.

Electron spin The spinning electron produces a magnetic field that makes it behave like a tiny magnet. Objective N.1.2.1

Magnetic domains Everything is magnetic because spinning electrons in the atoms create magnetic fields. This does not mean that everything is a magnet! In order to be a magnet, all those tiny magnetic fields must line up.

Magnetic domains When the magnetic domains are aligned the material is a good magnet. When the domains are scattered it is not a good magnet. Objective N.1.2.2.

Ferromagnetic Materials Materials that show strong magnetic properties are called ferromagnetic materials. They can be metal alloys or ferrite materials.

Making Magnets Permanent Magnets Temporary Magnets Permanent magnets are difficult to magnetize, they take a long time and require strong magnetic fields to become magnets but, once they are magnetic, they will stay magnetic for a long time. Temporary magnets are the opposite. They magnetize easily and quickly but then they only stay magnetic for a short time. In other words, the magnetic domains move easily into and out of alignment.

Two ways to destroy a magnet Heating Banging

Breaking magnets When you break a magnet in half, you do not get a north and south pole rather you will get two separate magnets each one with a north and south pole.