Are Magnets Useful?

Created by Cathy Newton

IntroductionWithout magnets, the world would be a different place. Magnets are materials with a magnetic force or field that can attract or repel objects. To investigate more into the importance of magnets in everyday life, let’s study five common uses of magnets, such as in a compass, for trains, in vending machines, for holding up objects and for electric motors.

CompassA compass uses a magnet to direct its needle to the north pole. This is why magnets are said to have a north and south pole. The side that is attracted and points to the north is called the north pole, while the other end is the south pole. By locating where north is you can easily determine the other three directions; south, west and east.

Trains Maglev trains use powerful electromagnets under the cars to float above a track or guideway by creating a magnetic field between the train and the guideway. The magnetic field created by the electrified coils in the guideway walls and the track combine to propel the train. These experimental trains can travel over 300 miles per hour and are being developed in countries such as Japan and Germany.

Vending MachinesInside vending machines there are magnets that help separate and sort real coins from fake ones. These magnets can sort out metal disks or slugs from the real coin money. Also, paper money and checks have magnetic dust in their ink. So, vending machines and currency counters check the money for its magnetism.

Holding up objects

One of the most common uses of magnets is to hold things together. Refrigerator magnets hold paper and photos up on the refrigerator doors. The magnets stick the paper to the door with its attraction to the metal in the door. Magnets in the door frame also help the actual refrigerator doors stay closed keeping the food inside fresh.

Electric MotorsMagnets are used for making electric motors and generators work. A motor uses magnets to create motion. By placing a metal wire near a magnet, it produces electricity. The magnetic field inside the wire moves to create the electricity. Many things around your house use electric motors with magnets in them. You can find them in toys, blenders, fans, hair dryers, washing machines, motorized toothbrushes and razors.