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How does the magnetic field near a small ceramic magnet compare with Earth’s magnetic field?
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magnetism
Some lines of the magnetic field B (blue) for an electric current I (gold) in a loop.
The magnetic field near a small ceramic magnet is significantly stronger than Earth’s magnetic field.
In physics, magnetic fields are measured in tesla (T). The magnetic field near a small ceramic magnet is approximately 0.1 T, whereas Earth’s magnetic field at the Equator is approximately T.1
This comparison highlights the vast difference in field strength between common permanent magnets and the geomagnetic field generated by the planet. While Earth's field is sufficient to influence a compass needle, the field produced by a small ceramic magnet is several orders of magnitude more intense.21