magnetic pole: Quick Facts

Written and fact-checked by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Photos and Videos

Two illustrations of bar magnets: on the left, a hand brings the north pole of one magnet near the south pole of another, showing attraction; on the right, a hand brings two north poles close, showing repulsion.

How do magnetic forces and poles work?

See All Videos and Images →

Topics

North Magnetic Pole South Magnetic Pole geomagnetic pole magnetism polarity magnet magnetic circuit magnetic mirror electromagnetic induction ferromagnetism antiferromagnetism How do magnets work?ferrimagnetism paramagnetism diamagnetism

Key People

Gilbert, William

William Gilbert

English scientist