Common Magnets, Unexpected Polarities

• Autores: Mark Olson
• Localización: The Physics Teacher, ISSN 0031-921X, Vol. 51, Nº. 8, 2013, págs. 454-455
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • In this paper, I discuss a �misconception� in magnetism so simple and pervasive as to be typically unnoticed. That magnets have poles might be considered one of the more straightforward notions in introductory physics. However, the magnets common to students' experiences are likely different from those presented in educational contexts. This leads students, in my experience, to frequently and erroneously attribute magnetic poles based on geometric associations rather than actual observed behavior. This polarity discrepancy can provide teachers the opportunity to engage students in authentic inquiry about objects in their daily experiences. I've found that investigation of the magnetic polarities of common magnets provides a productive context for students in which to develop valuable and authentic scientific inquiry practices.