A student wants to explore the potential energy stored in a system of two magnets.

Question

a. Describe a procedure that would increase the potential energy of two magnets if like poles are used. Explain why the energy of the system increases.

Answer 1

To explore the potential energy stored in a system of two magnets with like poles, you can follow this procedure:

Procedure:

1. Materials Needed:

   • Two bar magnets (ensure they have clearly marked poles, e.g., north and south).
   • A flat, stable surface to perform the experiment on.
   • A ruler or measuring tape for measuring distance.
   • A force gauge (optional) to measure the force exerted between the magnets.

2. Initial Setup:

   • Place the two magnets on the flat surface so that they are oriented with their like poles facing each other (e.g., both north poles facing each other).

3. Measuring Initial Distance:

   • Measure and record the initial distance between the two magnets. This will be your starting point.

4. Bringing Magnets Closer:

   • Gradually, while keeping the like poles facing each other, move one of the magnets closer to the other.
   • Use the ruler to measure and record the new distance at various intervals as you bring the magnets closer together.

5. Observe and Record:

   • As you bring the magnets closer, note the resistance or repulsive force you feel. If you’re using a force gauge, measure the force at each interval.
   • Record your observations, including the distance and the perceived force of repulsion.

6. Final Setup:

   • You may continue until the magnets are touching, or you can stop at intervals to measure how potential energy changes as you get closer.
   • For higher accuracy, you could release the magnet from a certain height and record how high it goes when released due to the stored potential energy when they repulse each other.

Explanation of Energy Increase:

• Potential Energy: When like poles of the magnets are brought closer together, they experience a repulsive force. This means that work is being done against this repulsion as one magnet is moved closer to the other.

• Work Done Against Repulsion: The energy input to move the magnets closer against the repulsive force translates into potential energy stored in the system. Essentially, you are increasing the potential energy because you must exert force to keep the magnets from repelling each other and moving apart.

• Storing Energy: Once the magnets are in their new position against their natural tendency to repel, potential energy is stored in this configuration. If the magnets are released, this potential energy can be converted back into kinetic energy as they move apart.

In summary, increasing the potential energy of a system of two like-pole magnets involves doing work against their natural repulsive force by bringing them closer together, which increases the stored potential energy in the system.