2006-09-29 16:12:56 · 6 answers · asked by fasisi2003 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Magnets pull iron and alloys of iron. I believe that magnets also will attract nickel. In addition, magnets can deflect electron and plasma streams. The ability of magnets to deflect electron streams is the basis behind the operation of the cathode ray tubes (CRTs) that have been the picture tubes in TV sets for 60 years.
As for why magnets attract iron, nickel and electrons, I don't know. However, magnetic force is one of the strongest and most predictable forces in nature.
2006-09-29 16:23:36 · answer #1 · answered by pvreditor 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Hi. In order for a magnet to attract a ferrous material, the electrons must be aligned in approximately the same orientation. This add each atoms magnetic field together (rather than at random positions as in normal iron). The result is a pull on a nearby piece of ferrous material.
2006-09-29 23:22:33 · answer #2 · answered by Cirric 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not just metal. Only iron or alloys containing iron.
They have atomic structure that can be lined up to react magnetically with the external magnet.
2006-09-29 23:15:38 · answer #3 · answered by Rich Z 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Medal possesess aligned properties of magnet. Therefore it is attracted by magnet
2006-09-29 23:22:45 · answer #4 · answered by dudul 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it's not metal it is only iron
it does not attract it's alloy also
eg: steel is not attracted by magnet
2006-09-30 08:06:19 · answer #5 · answered by vini 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Iron, not just any metal....iron
There are especially strong electromagnets which can hold brass but to a much lesser extent than they hold iron.
I would not like to have my life depend on one of them.
2006-09-29 23:16:19 · answer #6 · answered by GreenHornet 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋