UNIT OVERVIEW

Magnetism is an invisible force that can push, pull, and move objects without touching them. You see magnetism at work every day—when a compass points north, when fridge magnets stick to certain surfaces, and when speakers produce sound.

In this unit, you will learn how magnetic fields behave, why magnets attract or repel each other, and how Earth itself acts like a giant magnet. These ideas connect to many technologies you use, from electric motors to MRI machines in hospitals.

What You Will Learn

• What magnetic fields are and how they behave around magnets
• How to identify and explain the properties of magnetic poles
• Why magnets attract and repel based on their pole arrangement
• How to draw and interpret magnetic field lines
• How Earth's magnetic field works and why it matters
• How a compass works and its use in navigation

Real-Life Applications

Navigation: Before GPS, sailors and explorers used magnetic compasses to cross oceans. Pilots and hikers still carry compasses as backup tools.