Final answer:
The claim that magnetic fields do not exist is false; magnetic fields are a well-established concept in physics. Magnetic field lines at a given point in space do not cross, indicating a unique direction for the magnetic field there. The difference between electrical and magnetic forces lies in their dependence on charge and current, respectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion that magnetic fields do not exist because magnetism is slightly different from electrostatics is false. Magnetic fields do exist and are a fundamental aspect of magnetism. In electromagnetism, magnetic fields represent the regions around a magnet where magnetic forces are exerted on moving electric charges or other magnets, and can be visualized through the use of magnetic field lines.
Regarding the uniqueness of magnetic fields at a point in space, if magnetic field lines were to cross, it implies that there would be two different directions for the magnetic field at that point, which is not possible. Magnetic field lines do not cross in practice because the direction of the magnetic field at any given point in space is unique. When discussing forces on charges, it's important to note that the electrical force is dependent on charge, while the magnetic force is dependent on the current or rate of charge flow.
For example, when you place a small needle between the north poles of two bar magnets, the needle can indeed become magnetized due to the influence of the magnetic field. Moreover, magnetic field strength does decrease with distance from the magnet, which aligns with everyday experiences using magnets.