Introduction to Magnetism 211

Introduction to Magnetism provides a thorough overview of magnetism and how it relates to electricity. Magnetism is a force of attraction and repulsion that occurs when the molecules in a material align. Materials become magnetized when they are exposed to a magnetic field. Materials can be demagnetized with heat, vibration, or a magnetic field generated by alternating current. Magnets have two different poles, like the earth. Magnetic forces exit the north pole of a magnet and are attracted to the south pole. These forces, or lines of flux, are essential for producing electricity with magnetic induction. Electricity and magnetism are closely related. Magnetism is used to create electricity, and electricity is used to create magnetism. Most of the world’s electricity comes from magnetic induction. Understanding how these and other magnetic devices work requires familiarity with magnetism and its relationship to electricity.