What is a temporary magnet ?

A temporary magnet is a magnet that retains its magnetic properties only for a limited period of time. Unlike permanent magnets, which can maintain their magnetism for a long time, temporary magnets only exhibit magnetism under certain conditions and lose their magnetic properties when those conditions change.

Temporary magnets are often made from materials that can be easily magnetized but do not retain their magnetism once the magnetizing force is removed. Common examples of temporary magnets include soft iron and steel. When these materials are exposed to a strong magnetic field, such as from an electromagnet, they can become magnetized and exhibit magnetic properties. However, if the external magnetic field is removed, the temporary magnetism disappears, and the material returns to a non-magnetic state.

Temporary magnets are used in various applications, such as in the cores of electromagnets, where the ability to turn the magnetism on and off is desirable. When an electric current flows through the coil of wire in an electromagnet, it creates a magnetic field in the core material, turning it into a temporary magnet. When the current is turned off, the magnetic field disappears, and the core loses its magnetism.

In summary, a temporary magnet is a material that can be magnetized under certain conditions but loses its magnetism when those conditions change. It is different from permanent magnets, which can maintain their magnetism for an extended period of time.