Chapter 7, Problem 4STP

To determine

To Explain: The position where there is the magnetic north pole.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

In a magnetic material, the magnetic poles of a group of atoms, point in the same direction. These groups of atoms are called magnetic domains.

On bringing a magnet close to the steel paper clip, the magnetic field of the magnet causes all the domains to point in its direction. Since unlike poles attract, the south pole of the domain is attracted towards the north pole of the magnet. In the given diagram, the south pole of all the domains point to position 2. Hence, one can say that the magnet’s north pole is at position 2.

Conclusion:

The magnet’s north pole is most likely at position 2.