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Question 21 of 72 in Magnetism

Magnetic fields

2 marks · Easy

Why are magnetic field lines drawn from the north pole to the south pole of a magnet?

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Magnetic field lines are drawn from north to south to show the direction a north pole would move in the field and the direction of the magnetic force.

Also accept: They show the direction of force on a north pole.; To show the direction of the magnetic field outside the magnet.

Common mistakes: States field goes from south to north.; Does not mention direction or force.

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · States that this shows the direction of magnetic force.

B1 · 1 mark · Mentions that the direction is the way a north pole would move outside the magnet.

Worked solution

Because outside a magnet, the field lines show the direction that a north pole would move. The magnetic field is defined by this direction, from north to south.

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