Metal paper clips do not attract or repel each other. When an electromagnet is placed nearby, the paper clips can be observed to move toward it. Which statement describes this phenomenon?

Question

Responses

Electrons flow freely into the magnetic field, causing the paper clips to move.

The electromagnet reacts to the strong force of attraction from paper clips.

Magnetic domains within the paper clips align with the magnetic field.

Paper clips turn into permanent magnets after exposure to a magnetic field.

Answer 1

The correct statement that describes the phenomenon is:

Magnetic domains within the paper clips align with the magnetic field.

When the electromagnet is placed nearby, its magnetic field causes the magnetic domains in the metal paper clips (which are usually random in their orientation and do not exhibit magnetism on their own) to align in the direction of the magnetic field. This alignment creates a net magnetic field in the paper clips, allowing them to be attracted to the electromagnet.