# A compass needle is placed near a bar magnet. Describe what is meant by a magnetic field and explain how magnetic field lines are used to show both the direction and the strength of the magnetic field around the bar magnet.

> Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Physics (4PH1) — 6.1 Magnetism · Describe and Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. A magnetic field is the region around a magnet where another magnet or magnetic material will experience a non-contact force.
2. Magnetic field lines point from the north pole to the south pole of the magnet, showing the direction of the force on a north pole at that point.
3. Where the field lines are closer together (more concentrated), the magnetic field is stronger.
4. The field is strongest at the poles because the field lines are most concentrated there.

## Key terms

- [magnetic field](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/magnetic-field)
- [magnetic field lines](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/magnetic-field-lines)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Physics (4PH1)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-compass-needle-is-placed-near-72194ab0) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.