This exam focus covers Exam Focus within Magnetic Fields for GCSE Physics. Revise Magnetic Fields in Magnetism for GCSE Physics with 14 exam-style questions and 12 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 11 of 13 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
🎯 Exam Focus
Frequently Examined
Magnetic fields are tested across a range of question types. Examined in Edexcel 1PH0/2 (Paper 2). Edexcel questions often use context-based scenarios — loudspeaker design, door locks, scrapyard cranes — so be ready to apply electromagnet principles to unfamiliar situations.
- Draw field lines (2 marks): Must include arrows (N to S outside magnet), show lines closer at poles, show repulsion/attraction pattern for two magnets.
- Electromagnet strength (2-3 marks): Three ways: more current, more turns, iron core. Explain why iron core works better than steel core.
- Permanent vs induced magnet (2 marks): Induced magnets are ALWAYS attracted, never repelled. They lose magnetism when removed from field.
- Uses of electromagnets (2 marks): Any named use with explanation of why the switchable/controllable nature is an advantage.
- "Suggest" questions: Edexcel 1PH0/2 may describe a novel electromagnetic device and ask you to suggest how its strength or direction could be changed — apply the three factors to the new context.
Practice questions for Magnetic Fields
What happens when two like magnetic poles (e.g. north and north) are brought close together?
State the rules for the attraction and repulsion of magnetic poles.