Super strong magnets are used in science and engineering, created through electricity or combining elements like neodymium. They have many uses, including in MRI machines, speakers, and maglev trains. However, they can also be dangerous if mishandled.
Super strong magnets are used in scientific and engineering applications where naturally formed magnets are not strong enough. Scientists have discovered ways to enhance the natural magnetic properties of some materials with electricity. Other super strong magnets are created from elements such as neodymium, sometimes alloyed with other metals. Such magnets have many common uses in modern technology as well as more unusual applications in scientific research and even veterinary medicine.
Magnetism is a natural property of many materials; some metals, such as iron, have such strong magnetic fields that they attract other metals. This occurs because the atoms in iron have electrons that spin in tandem, unlike those in other materials, which spin in random directions. This creates a powerful attraction for objects with a similar atomic structure. In 1824, scientist William Sturgeon discovered that electricity could greatly increase this attraction, creating the first electromagnet. Scientists later improved on the process, inventing super-strong magnets that could be turned on and off at the flip of a switch.
In the late 20th century, scientists discovered that certain elements could be combined into the strongest super-strong magnets ever created. These rare earth magnets include samarium-cobalt and the even stronger neodymium magnets. Their magnetic fields are so strong that they can ruin sensitive magnetic materials such as computer drives and credit cards if they get too close. In fact, large neodymium magnets can even cause human health hazards if handled improperly. These magnets have such a strong attraction to metal that they could actually crush anything between them and a nearby metal object, including a human hand.
Super strong magnets have many applications in science and engineering. Basic televisions and computer monitors use electromagnets to focus beams of electrons to create images. A similar, highly amplified process is used in particle accelerators for scientific research. Maglev or maglev trains use high-power magnets to move the cars without making contact with their tracks. Trains in Japan, Germany, and other locations use this process to achieve a faster, frictionless ride.
Super strong magnets are commonly used in stereo speakers, electric motors and generators, and electrical transformers. In medicine, MRI allows non-invasive exploration of patients’ bodies. Landfills use electromagnets on cranes to lift cars and other large metal objects. An unusual use for strong magnets is the cow magnet, designed to be swallowed by cattle. The cow magnet sits harmlessly in the cow’s stomach, preventing any accidentally ingested metal objects from interfering with the animal’s digestive tract.
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