Difference Between Electromagnet and Permanent Magnet

The major difference between an electromagnet and a permanent magnet is that the former can have a magnetic field when electric current flows through it and disappears when the flow of the current stops. On the other hand, permanent magnets are made up of magnetic material that is magnetised and has its own magnetic field. It will always display the magnetic behaviour.

Difference Between Electromagnet and Permanent Magnet

Difference Between Electromagnet and Permanent Magnet

As the name suggests permanent magnet magnetic field is permanent and electromagnets magnetic field depends upon the flow of the electrical current. The electromagnet constitutes a coil made of wire which acts as a magnet when current is passed through it. Usually, a ferromagnetic material like steel is wrapped by an electromagnet to enhance its magnetic field.

Difference Between Electromagnet and Permanent Magnet
Electromagnet Permanent Magnet
The magnetic properties are displayed when current is passed through it Magnetic properties exist when the material is magnetised
The strength is adjusted depending upon the amount of flow of current The strength depends upon the nature of the material used in its creation
Removal of magnetic properties is temporary Once magnetic properties are lost, it becomes useless
It requires a continuous supply of electricity to maintain its magnetic field. It doesn’t require a continuous supply of electricity to maintain its magnetic field
It is usually made of soft materials It is usually made of hard materials
The poles of this kind of magnet can be altered with the flow of current The poles of this kind of magnet cannot be changed.

These were some differences between an electromagnet and a permanent magnet. If you wish to find out more, download BYJU’S – The learning app.

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Permanent Magnets and Magnetic Behaviour Electromagnetism

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Q1

Electromagnets require a continuous supply of electric current. Is it true or false?

The above statement is true, electromagnets require a continuous supply of electricity to maintain its magnetic field.
Q2

What is electromagnetic force?

The electromagnetic force is a force that acts between charged particles and is a combination of electrical and magnetic forces.
Q3

What are the properties of a magnet?

A magnet has three properties and that are attractive prosperity, repulsive property and directive property.
Q4

What is a magnet?

An object which is capable of producing magnetic fields and attracting unlike poles and repelling like poles.
Q5

Write some uses of permanent magnets.

Permanent magnets find applications in generators, electric accelerators, and electric motors.
Test your knowledge on Electromagnet and permanent magnet

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