What is a Magnetic Field?

The force of attraction and repulsion that influences ferromagnetic materials and emanates from a permanent magnet or an electromagnet is known as a magnetic field. This field arises because the electrons within the atoms of certain ferromagnetic materials can be influenced by a magnetic force, which can come from either an electric current or a permanent magnet. When an external force acts on an unmagnetized ferrous material, such as carbon steel, the electrons shift from their random state to a more aligned position, resulting in the creation of a magnetic field.

This molecular alignment produces a magnetic field that flows between the South and North poles of the magnetized material. The invisible field extends from the south pole to the north pole and radiates outward through the surrounding air, returning to the south pole area. This magnetic field can penetrate most solid materials in its path. The intensity and depth of the magnetic field depend on the size of the magnet and the type of magnetic material from which it is made.

Similarly, the Earth’s molten iron core behaves like most magnets, possessing its own North and South poles. While opposite poles attract each other, like poles repel. A typical navigational compass points north due to its attraction to the Earth’s natural magnetic pole. However, it’s important to note that True North is not the same as magnetic North; True North is located where the longitudinal lines of the globe intersect in the Arctic region, not at the exact area of magnetic North.