Question

Magnet X is fixed in place, and magnet Y can be moved. Describe three ways magnet Y could be moved to increase its potential energy. In each case, explain why the change of position would increase potential energy.

Answer 1

Magnet Y can increase its potential energy by moving closer to magnet X, increasing the strength of magnet X, or orienting magnet Y in a different direction. In all cases, work is done to move against the magnetic force.

Step-by-step explanation:

Three ways magnet Y could be moved to increase its potential energy are:

1. Moving it closer to magnet X: When magnet Y is moved closer to magnet X, the magnetic force between them increases. This results in an increase in potential energy because work is done to move magnet Y against the magnetic force.
2. Increasing the strength of magnet X: If the strength of magnet X is increased, the magnetic force between the magnets will increase. Moving magnet Y against this stronger force requires work and increases its potential energy.
3. Orienting magnet Y in a different direction: If magnet Y is rotated or repositioned so that its poles are closer to magnet X, the magnetic force between them will increase. As magnet Y is moved against this force, its potential energy increases.

In all three cases, the potential energy of magnet Y increases as work is done to move it against the magnetic force.