Question

Two kinds of magnets are shown below.



Jackson wants to hang a small piece of paper on the metal door of his refrigerator. Which type of magnet would be best for Jackson to use, and why?
A.
Magnet 2 would work best because it has a continuous magnetic field.
B.
Magnet 1 would work best because it would attract the refrigerator with more force.
C.
Magnet 1 would work best because it has a continuous magnetic field.
D.
Magnet 2 would work best because it would attract the refrigerator with more force.

Answer 1

B.

Magnet 1 would work best because its poles are arranged so the magnetic field is concentrated at the contact area, producing a stronger attractive force on the metal door. A stronger, concentrated field holds the paper more securely than a magnet with a weaker/less concentrated field.