Magnetism - Magnetic and Non-magnetic materials

Magnetism is a property of certain materials to attract pieces of iron or steel. The materials that show this property are called magnets.

Magnetic Materials: Materials that are attracted by a magnet are called magnetic materials. Examples include Iron ($Fe$), Cobalt ($Co$), Nickel ($Ni$), and alloys like Steel.

Non-magnetic Materials: Materials that are not attracted by a magnet are called non-magnetic materials. Examples include Wood, Plastic, Glass, Copper ($Cu$), Aluminum ($Al$), and Gold ($Au$).

Poles of a Magnet: Every magnet has two regions of maximum appreciative power called poles: the North Pole ($N$) and the South Pole ($S$).

The Law of Magnetism: Like poles repel each other (e.g., $N$ repels $N$), and unlike poles attract each other (e.g., $N$ attracts $S$).

Repulsion is the Sure Test: A magnet can attract both a magnetic material and an opposite pole of another magnet. However, only two like poles can repel each other. Therefore, repulsion is the only sure way to identify a magnet.

Magnetic Field: The space around a magnet where its influence can be felt is called the magnetic field.