Zack places iron filings on a piece of paper near a bar magnet. The iron filings quickly move and form a pattern around the magnet. Which argument does this evidence BEST support?
A
A magnet can attract all objects through different materials.
B
Magnetic fields exist between objects that are not directly touching each other.
C
Only materials that are made of metal have a magnetic force.
D
Big magnets can attract more objects.
The evidence of iron filings quickly moving and forming a pattern around the magnet supports the argument that magnetic fields exist between objects that are not directly touching each other (Option B). To understand why, it's important to understand the concept of magnetic fields and how they interact with objects.
A magnetic field is a region in space where magnetic forces are exerted. When a bar magnet is present, it creates a magnetic field around itself. This magnetic field can be thought of as invisible lines of force that extend from one pole of the magnet to the other.
Iron filings, being made of metal, are attracted to magnets because they are capable of being magnetized. When the iron filings are placed near the bar magnet, the magnetic field of the magnet exerts a force on the filings. As a result, the iron filings align themselves along the invisible magnetic field lines, forming a pattern.
This phenomenon demonstrates that magnetic fields exist even when objects are not in direct contact with each other. The iron filings are influenced by the magnetic field without needing direct physical contact with the magnet. Option B accurately describes this concept and aligns with the evidence observed in the given scenario.