The spelling of "magnetic poles" is relatively straightforward. The word "magnetic" is spelled exactly as it sounds, with three syllables and the emphasis on the second syllable. The word "poles" is a bit more complex, as it is spelled with only four letters but has two sounds. The first sound is the "p" sound, which is pronounced with a puff of air: /p/. The second sound is the "owl" sound, which is pronounced with rounded lips and a long vowel sound: /oʊlz/. Together, the two words create a phonetically balanced phrase: /mæɡˈnɛtɪk poʊlz/.
Magnetic poles refer to the two opposing points on a magnet where the magnetic field is the strongest. These poles are typically known as the north and south poles. The north pole is marked by a positive sign (+) and is attracted to the south pole, which is marked by a negative sign (-).
At the atomic level, magnetic poles are determined by the alignment of electrons within a material. In a magnet, the atoms are grouped together in domains, which are regions where the atoms have similar alignment. Each of these domains acts as a tiny magnet, with its own north and south pole. When a magnetic material is unmagnetized, these domains are randomly oriented, causing the overall magnetic field to cancel out. However, when the material is magnetized, the domains align in a specific direction, creating a net magnetic field.
Magnetic poles have several important properties. Firstly, opposite poles attract each other, while similar poles repel. This phenomenon is known as the magnetic attraction/repulsion. Secondly, magnetic poles are always found in pairs, meaning that it is not possible to isolate a single magnetic pole. Breaking a magnet in half simply creates two separate magnets, each with its own north and south pole. Finally, the strength of a magnetic field is greatest near the poles and decreases as we move further away.
• The two points in the higher northern and southern regions, where the needle dips and becomes vertical or perpendicular to the horizon-the north pole of the needle dipping in the north, and the south pole in the south.
• The two points on the earth, near the poles, at which the dipping-needle is vertical, or the magnetic intensity greatest.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The term "magnetic poles" originated from the field of magnetism, which has roots in ancient history. The word "magnetic" comes from the Latin word "magnetis", which is derived from the Greek word "magnētis lithos", meaning "lodestone". Lodestone is a naturally occurring mineral (magnetite) that possesses magnetic properties and was used in the early understanding of magnetism.
The concept of "poles" in magnetism can be traced back to 1269 when French scholar Pierre de Maricourt used the term "polus" (Latin for "end" or "pivot") to describe the two points on a magnet where its attractive or repulsive forces were the strongest. The idea of magnetic poles gained further development over time, leading to the understanding of the north and south poles, similar to Earth's geographic poles, but oriented according to magnetic fields.