One of the first concepts you will learn about in relation to magnets is their poles. We know that lining up the south and north poles will cause your magnets to attract, while lining up two of the same poles will lead to repulsion. The north pole also seeks the North Pole of the Earth when it is free to rotate, and the south pole seeks the Earth’s South Pole. Seems straightforward, right? As you read more about poles, you will actually see that even scientists disagree on certain properties. Let’s take a look at some of their dueling ideas.
Which Pole is Negative?
Before we begin, you can get a complete guide to the magnetic poles by visiting our FAQs page. This is a great resource for familiarizing yourself with their known properties. There is a positive and negative end to each magnet, which can actually be determined by using a compass. Many experts say that the south pole is considered to be positive, while the north pole is negative. Others claim that this is actually flipped and that the north pole is actually positive. There is no definitive answer to this question, but you can perform the compass trick on your magnets at home to make a determination before beginning your next project.
Which Polarity is Stronger?
There is also some debate regarding which polarity is stronger. Some sources claim that the north and south poles are equally strong. While this seems to be the most popular belief, some still claim that the north pole is actually stronger than the south. To gauge the strength of your magnet at home, follow some of the tips provided in our previous blog.
Learn More With Apex Magnets
Now that you are a little more familiar with the poles of a magnet, why not put your knowledge to use? Get started on your next summer project today! If you are ever in need of assistance, just call us at 1-304-257-1193 to speak with an associate. We are always happy to help you get started on your project, no matter how big or small! For some inspiration, visit our DIY blogs. Visit our online store today!
