NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

What happens to like magnetic poles when they come close to each other?

1. Attract

2. Repel

3. Neutralize

4. Combine

The correct answer is: Repel

Like magnetic poles, such as two north poles or two south poles, repel each other when brought close together. This repulsion occurs due to the fundamental properties of magnetic fields. Every magnet has two poles: the north and south pole. When like poles are positioned near one another, their magnetic fields interact in a way that pushes them apart, creating a force of repulsion. This behavior is a cornerstone of magnetism, demonstrating that opposite poles attract each other, while like poles do not. In contrast, options such as neutralize or combine do not accurately describe the behavior of magnetic poles. Neutralization suggests a cancellation of forces, which does not happen with magnetic poles. Similarly, combining does not occur, as magnetic poles maintain their individual identities even when interacting. Understanding this repulsion between like poles is essential for grasping the foundational principles of magnetism.