Answers to AQA GCSE Showing Magnetic Fields(Physics)

Practice Question

1. State the definition of a magnetic field.

A magnetic field is a region of space where a force due to magnetism is experienced by a magnetic material or magnet.

2. A compass is used to draw the field lines from the green end of a bar magnet to the purple end of the bar magnet. What is the colour of the south end of the magnet?

Purple

3. Write a method on how to use a plotting compass to draw a magnetic field around  a bar magnet.

Place a bar magnet on a piece of paper and use a pencil to draw around it.

Place a plotting compass next to the bar magnet. Mark with a pencil where the compass needle points next to the compass as shown below.

Now move the compass, so that the back of the compass needle lines up with the cross that we just marked with the pencil. 

Now continue this process until the crosses lead back to the magnet as shown below. Then connect the crosses with a line. Also, place the plotting compass on the other side of the magnet, so you can construct field lines on the other side.

After you have used the compass in multiple locations you will have multiple field lines as shown below

Magnetic field around a permanent magnet

Accordion Content

Accordion Content