Final answer:
The small atom-like structures found in all permanent magnets are called magnetic domains. These domains are regions within the material where the magnetic poles of individual atoms are aligned.
Step-by-step explanation:
The small atom-like structures found in all permanent magnets are called magnetic domains. These domains are regions within the material where the magnetic poles of individual atoms are aligned, causing each atom to act like a tiny bar magnet. In an unmagnetized ferromagnetic object, the domains are small and randomly oriented. However, in response to an external magnetic field, the domains align and grow in size, resulting in magnetization.