Final answer:
A magnet contains iron and is capable of attracting iron and other ferromagnetic materials. Ferromagnetism explains how materials like iron can be magnetized and respond to magnetic forces, with distinct north and south poles aligning according to Earth's magnetic field.
Step-by-step explanation:
A thing that has iron inside and can attract iron is a magnet. Magnets can naturally attract ferromagnetic materials, which include iron, cobalt, nickel, and gadolinium. These materials are so named because of their ability to be magnetized or to show strong magnetic properties. The phenomenon where these materials are attracted to magnets and can be turned into permanent magnets themselves is called ferromagnetism. All magnets have two distinct poles, known as the north pole and the south pole, and when suspended freely, the north pole of a magnet will orient itself toward the Earth's magnetic north.
To see magnetism in action, a simple demonstration involves placing a bar magnet under a thin surface with a sheet of paper on top, and then sprinkling iron filings over the paper. Giving the paper a slight shake will cause the filings to align themselves along the magnetic field lines, creating a visible pattern that represents the force exerted by the magnetic field.