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Everyday Science · 45 sec

Magnetism

The science behind something you encounter, use, or wonder about.

  1. The useful idea

    Magnetism is the class of physical attributes that occur through a magnetic field, which allows objects to attract or repel each other.

  2. How it works

    Because both electric currents and magnetic moments of elementary particles give rise to a magnetic field, magnetism is one of two aspects of electromagnetism.

  3. Why it matters

    The familiar effects occur in ferromagnetic materials, which are strongly attracted by magnetic fields and can be magnetized to become permanent magnets, producing magnetic fields themselves.

Look for Magnetism the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.

Look for Magnetism the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.

Test your recall

Which idea belongs to the explanation of Magnetism?

  • How it works
  • The useful idea — correct
  • Why it matters

Magnetism is the class of physical attributes that occur through a magnetic field, which allows objects to attract or repel each other.

EvergreenLast verified 2026-07-19

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