Introduction

Magnets have long been used as a useful tool in various everyday applications, but do you know the difference between a permanent magnet and a temporary magnet? In this article you will discover it.

What is a magnet?

A magnet is an object that has the property of attracting ferromagnetic materials such as iron, nickel or cobalt. These materials have the property of being attracted to the magnet due to the orientation of their electrons.

Permanent magnet

A permanent magnet is one that has a constant magnetic field and, therefore, always has its attractive capacity. They are manufactured from materials such as iron, nickel and cobalt, and their alloys.

Characteristics of a permanent magnet

• It maintains its magnetic field over time.
• It does not depend on the external magnetic field.
• Its magnetic intensity is constant.
• It is used in electric motors, speakers, among others.

temporary magnet

A temporary magnet is one that produces a magnetic field temporarily, that is, its ability to attract is limited. These magnets are manufactured from materials such as iron, steel, and aluminum and nickel alloys.

Characteristics of a temporary magnet

• It only has the ability to attract for a limited time.
• Its magnetic intensity can vary depending on the external magnetic field.
• It is used in security devices, like metal detectors.

Which magnet is better?

It cannot be said that one magnet is better than another, since each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, permanent magnets have a greater attractiveness, but are more expensive to manufacture. On the other hand, temporary magnets are cheaper, but their attractiveness is limited.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a permanent magnet has a constant magnetic field, while a temporary magnet produces a magnetic field temporarily. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and their use will depend on the specific application.

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