A magnetic field is a region in which a magnetic material experiences a force. We represent this using field lines — imaginary lines that show the direction and strength of the field.
- Field lines go from NORTH to SOUTH pole (outside the magnet)
- Arrows show the direction a free north pole would move
- Closely spaced lines = stronger magnetic field
- Lines never cross each other
- The field is strongest at the poles (lines are closest together)
Direction of the field: A compass needle always aligns with field lines — the north end points in the direction of the field (from N to S outside the magnet).
This deep dive covers Magnetic Fields and Field Lines 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 2 of 13 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
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.