This diagram illustrates the magnetic field lines around a pair of bar magnets.
Click on image for full size
Electricity and Magnetism
Electricity and magnetism are two very important topics
in the science of physics. We use electricity to power computers and to
turn on a light. Magnetism makes a compass point North and keeps notes stuck
on our refrigerators. Without electromagnetic
radiation we would all be in
the dark, because light is one of its forms!
Humans have learned to use electricity in the
last two hundred years. Our modern world uses electricity in many
ways. Electricity has changed the world a lot. Electricity in nature is also
important. Natural electricity makes
lightning and the signals that flow
along
your nerves.
Magnetism is also important in physics. Some materials, such as iron, are
attracted to magnets. Other materials, such as copper, are not. We use the
idea of "magnetic fields" to show how objects move when they are near magnets.
The magnetic field of the Earth keeps us safe from harmful particles from Sun.
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