Magnetic Poles
Q: What are the two ends of a magnet called?
A: The north pole and the south pole.
Q: Which material can a magnet attract: gold or iron?
A: Iron.
Q: What is the invisible force that magnets use called?
A: Magnetic force.
Q: What force allows a maglev train to float above its track?
A: Magnetic force
Q: What force resists movement when two surfaces rub against each other?
A: Friction.
Q: What happens when opposite magnetic poles face each other?
A: They attract each other.
Q: Name two metals that can be made into magnets.
A: Iron and steel.
Q: What does the word "maglev" stand for?
A: Magnetic levitation.
Q: What does it mean when a train levitates?
A: It floats above the track.
Q: What is a substance such as oil or grease used to reduce friction called?
A: A lubricant.
Q: What happens when two north poles face each other?
A: They repel each other.
Q: Can a magnet usually stick to paper, wood, or glass?
A: No. These materials are not normally attracted to magnets.
Q: Which machine uses magnets to help doctors see inside the body: an MRI machine, a compass, or a maglev train?
A: An MRI machine.
Q: Why can maglev trains travel very fast?
A: They float above the tracks, which greatly reduces friction.
Q: What is one way to reduce friction between moving machine parts?
A: Add a lubricant, such as oil or grease.
Q: A north pole faces a south pole. Will the magnets attract or repel?
A: They will attract.
Q: A box contains an iron nail, a plastic spoon, and a wooden pencil. Which item should a magnet attract?
A: The iron nail.
Q: How does a compass help people find directions?
A: A compass has a magnetic needle that aligns with Earth's magnetic field and points approximately north and south.
Q: A train floats above its track instead of rolling on wheels along it. What force helps it float?
A: Magnetic force.
Q: A door hinge squeaks when the door moves. What could you add to reduce friction?
A: A lubricant, such as oil.
Q: Two magnets push away from each other when brought close together. What is happening?
A: The magnets repel each other because like poles are facing each other.
Q: Why can a magnet attract some metal objects but not all metal objects?
A: Magnets attract certain magnetic materials, such as iron and steel, but not all metals.
Q: Name two ways magnetism is useful.
A: Possible answers include helping people find directions with a compass, helping doctors see inside the body with an MRI machine, and helping maglev trains float above their tracks.
Q: Explain how magnetic levitation helps a train move efficiently.
A: Magnets lift the train above the track, reducing contact and friction so the train can move more efficiently.
Q: Why can reducing friction help moving machine parts work better?
A: Reducing friction makes movement easier and can reduce heat and wear.