A student holds the north pole of a permanent magnet close to, but not touching, a steel paper clip. Describe what happens to the paper clip and explain why it behaves differently from how a second permanent magnet would behave if its south pole were held in the same position.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (4 marks)
The steel paper clip becomes an induced magnet when it is placed in the magnetic field of the permanent magnet.
The end of the clip nearest the north pole of the permanent magnet becomes a south pole, so the clip is attracted towards the permanent magnet.
Induced magnetism always produces a force of attraction, because the induced poles are arranged so that opposite poles face each other.
A second permanent magnet with its south pole nearest the first magnet would also be attracted, but if its north pole were nearest it would be repelled. The paper clip, being an induced magnet, can only be attracted, not repelled.
The end of the clip nearest the north pole of the permanent magnet becomes a south pole, so the clip is attracted towards the permanent magnet.
Induced magnetism always produces a force of attraction, because the induced poles are arranged so that opposite poles face each other.
A second permanent magnet with its south pole nearest the first magnet would also be attracted, but if its north pole were nearest it would be repelled. The paper clip, being an induced magnet, can only be attracted, not repelled.
Examiner tips
- Use the phrase "becomes an induced magnet" to show understanding of induction. Explain that the induced pole opposite the permanent magnet’s pole causes attraction. Mention that a permanent magnet can attract or repel depending on pole orientation. Keep the answer concise and use the exact terminology "induced magnet" and "force of attraction".
Common mistakes
- Confusing the paper clip with a permanent magnet and saying it can be repelled. Failing to state that the induced pole is opposite to the permanent magnet’s pole. Using vague language like "it gets pulled" without explaining the magnetic pole arrangement.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- The steel paper clip becomes an induced magnet (when placed in the magnetic field of the permanent magnet).
- The end of the paper clip nearest the north pole becomes a south pole, so the paper clip is attracted towards the permanent magnet.
- Induced magnetism always produces a force of attraction (unlike a second permanent magnet, which has fixed poles that could attract or repel).
- A second permanent magnet with its south pole nearest would also be attracted, but if its north pole were nearest it would be repelled; the paper clip (induced magnet) can only ever be attracted, not repelled.
Key terms in this question
Related
- All AQA GCSE Physics (8463) revision notes →
- How to answer a "Describe and Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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