TeXes Science Practice Test

What do like poles of magnets do to each other?

1. Attract

2. Repel

3. Rotate

4. Neutralize

The correct answer is: Repel

Like poles of magnets repel each other due to the fundamental properties of magnetic fields. Each magnet has two poles: a north pole and a south pole. When two identical poles—such as two north poles or two south poles—are brought close to each other, their magnetic fields interact in a way that causes them to push away from each other. This repulsion arises because the magnetic field lines emanating from like poles are oriented in such a way that they do not connect, creating a situation where the forces work against one another. In contrast, opposite poles attract each other because their magnetic field lines can connect, allowing the magnets to pull together. The interaction between magnetic poles is governed by the principles of magnetism, which dictate these behaviors based on the alignment and directionality of magnetic fields. Understanding this principle is crucial for grasping the basics of magnetism and its applications.