Magnetism and Electromagnetism
5 marks · NormalA bar magnet is placed on a table. Another bar magnet is brought nearby so that their closest ends are both north poles.
State what happens between the two magnets and explain why.
Draw and label the magnetic field pattern between the two north poles using field lines.
Describe one feature of the magnetic field between the magnets.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
(a) They repel each other because like poles repel.
(b) — · must show Field lines curve away, no lines joining between magnets, labelled north poles
(c) The field is weakest in the region between the two north poles; there may be a neutral point.
Must show: repulsion, field lines curving away
Common mistakes: Field lines joining at like poles
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B2a (a) · 2 marks · States repulsion (1) and explains it is due to like poles (1).
B2b (b) · 2 marks · Accurate drawing: field lines curve outwards between north poles and do not join between the magnets (1); clear labels including N poles (1).
B2c (c) · 1 mark · Identifies a feature, e.g. field is weakest/neutral point between the two N poles (1).
Worked solution
a) The magnets repel because both have north poles facing each other. Like poles repel.
b) (Student should draw spreading lines curving out from each N pole, not joining between the two magnets, and label both ends as N.
c) The field is weakest in the middle between the magnets; there could be a neutral point where the fields cancel out.