What is the Difference Between Bar Magnet and Electromagnet?

The main difference between a bar magnet and an electromagnet lies in their magnetic properties and the way they are created. Here are the key differences:

1. Permanent vs. Temporary Magnetism: A bar magnet is a permanent magnet that can create its own persistent magnetic field, while an electromagnet is a temporary magnet that can produce a magnetic field in the presence of an electric current.
2. Magnetic Field Strength: The strength of the magnetic field lines in a bar magnet is constant and cannot be varied, whereas the strength of the magnetic field lines in an electromagnet can be varied according to our need.
3. Polarity: The poles of a bar magnet cannot be changed, while the poles of an electromagnet can be altered.
4. Materials: Bar magnets are usually made of hard materials, such as iron or steel, which can retain their magnetic properties once magnetized. In contrast, electromagnets are usually made of soft materials, such as soft iron, which can be easily magnetized and demagnetized.
5. Power Source: Bar magnets do not require a power source, as they are permanently magnetized. Electromagnets, on the other hand, need a power supply to create the magnetic field.

In summary, bar magnets are permanent magnets with constant magnetic field strength and unchangeable polarity, while electromagnets are temporary magnets with variable magnetic field strength and alterable polarity. Bar magnets do not require a power source, whereas electromagnets need a power supply to function.

Comparative Table: Bar Magnet vs Electromagnet

The main difference between a bar magnet and an electromagnet is that a bar magnet is a permanent magnet, whereas an electromagnet is a temporary magnet that is activated only when an electric current is passed through its coils. Here is a table highlighting the differences between bar magnets and electromagnets:

Some key points to consider:

• A bar magnet is made of a ferromagnetic material, such as iron, and its magnetism is mainly due to electron spins.
• An electromagnet is formed when an electric current is passed through wires wound around a soft iron core.
• The polarity of an electromagnet can be changed by reversing the direction of the current.
• A bar magnet has a constant magnetic field strength, while the strength of an electromagnet can be changed by controlling the electric current that passes through the wire.