Final answer:
The statement that like poles attract and unlike poles oppose each other is False. The correct principle is that like poles of magnets repel each other, whereas unlike poles attract each other, a characteristic universal to all magnets and comparable to the behavior of electrostatic charges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The law of attraction and repulsion of magnets states that like poles repel each other and unlike poles attract each other. This fundamental principle indicates that two north poles (N) or two south poles (S) will exert a repulsive force and push away from one another. Conversely, when a north pole (N) and a south pole (S) come into close proximity, they will be drawn towards each other due to the attractive force between them. This behavior is mirrored in electrostatics, where unlike charges attract and like charges repel.
In the context of the Earth, which also exhibits a magnetic field, these properties are evident at the planetary level, influencing the behavior of compass needles and other navigational instruments. Furthermore, in electromagnetism, electricity and magnetism are closely related, where an electric current through wires can create a magnetic field, as observed in electromagnets.
Therefore, the statement in the question that "like poles attract and unlike poles oppose each other" is False, as the proper statement should be that like poles repel and unlike poles attract.