Magnetism
4 marks · NormalA student places two identical bar magnets flat on a table, their north poles facing each other about 5 cm apart.
State and explain what the student will observe when trying to push the magnets closer together.
Draw a labelled diagram to show the magnetic field pattern 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) The magnets repel each other, so the student will feel a force pushing them apart. · must show Repulsion, Force away from each other
(b) Diagram should show field lines between the two north poles that bend away from the gap, but do not connect across it; lines show repulsion. · must show Field lines do not cross between the poles, Field lines curve out and away from each other
Common mistakes: Field lines shown crossing between like poles in diagram; Describing attraction instead of repulsion
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Mentions magnets repel or a force pushes them apart.
B2 (a) · 1 mark · Correct explanation – repulsion due to like poles.
B1 (b) · 1 mark · Correct field lines shown bent outward between the two north poles.
B2 (b) · 1 mark · Labels showing north poles and direction of field lines (from north outwards).
Worked solution
(a) The student feels a repulsive force when they try to push the magnets together as like poles repel each other.