Natural Magnets
Natural magnets are found in the earth and are rich in an iron mineral called magnetite. Natural magnets date back to ancient times when they were used as compasses to navigate the world.
Lodestone is magnetite that is naturally magnetized and attracts metals like iron. It is one of the only minerals that is naturally magnetized.
Magnetite
Man-Made Magnets
Man-made magnets are developed in a lab by taking metallic alloys and processing them to align the charge. These magnets are made up of different atoms and molecules that are ferromagnetic material. Ferromagnetic material, is what the other materials magnets are made of are attracted to.
These atoms and molecules have a magnetic field that allows them to reinforce each other. They either attract or repel the material from their poles, the north or the south. Nickel, cobalt, steel, and iron are a few of the ferromagnetic materials that have strong magnetic properties.
Iron powder magnetic field.
The Four Main Kinds Of Magnets
Within these four different kinds of magnets, there are also different types of magnets:
• Permanent Magnets
• Temporary Magnets
• Electromagnets
• Superconductors
Permanent Magnets
Permanent magnets are used in everyday life. Once permanent magnets have been magnetized they retain their magnetism to a certain degree. Permanent magnets do vary in strength and power. Measuring the strength and power of a magnet requires different equations but uses gaussmeters, magnetometers, and pull-testers. Some are very hard to be demagnetized, however, they can still be damaged.
The magnetic attraction of the atoms may become damaged if other magnets or magnetic materials are in close proximity. Extreme temperature conditions of highs and lows can also demagnetize the magnets. Although their appearance is solid, handling them with care is extremely important. Dropping, hammering, jarring and using force on the magnet can also demagnetize the material.
Permanent magnets come in many different shapes and sizes and depending on the material can be molded into various shapes. They can also be flexible with different degrees of thickness and lengths.
4 main types of permanent magnets.
- Neodymium Iron Boron
- Samarium Cobalt
- Ceramic or Ferrite
- Alnico
Neodymium Iron Boron
Samarium Cobalt
Ceramic or Ferrite
Alnico