The direction of magnetic lines of force change if an iron piece is placed in its field. Why?
The direction of magnetic lines of force change when an iron piece is placed in its field due to a phenomenon called magnetic induction. Magnetic induction occurs when the magnetic field of a magnet or an electromagnet induces a magnetic field in a nearby object, such as an iron piece.
To understand why the direction of magnetic lines of force change, we need to consider the properties of magnetic materials like iron. Iron is a ferromagnetic material, which means it can be easily magnetized. When an iron piece is brought into the magnetic field of a magnet or electromagnet, the magnetic domains within the iron align themselves with the external field, effectively becoming magnetized.
The presence of the magnetized iron piece alters the magnetic field in its vicinity. The magnetic field lines of force extend from the north pole of the magnet to its south pole, forming a closed loop. However, when the iron piece is placed in the field, the magnetized iron aligns its magnetic domains to reinforce the existing magnetic field, effectively changing the direction of the magnetic lines of force.
This change in the direction of magnetic lines of force is a result of the iron's ability to amplify and redirect the magnetic field. It effectively creates a stronger and more concentrated magnetic field in the area around the iron piece, causing the magnetic lines of force to deviate from their original path.
In conclusion, the direction of magnetic lines of force change when an iron piece is placed in its field due to the process of magnetic induction. The magnetized iron alters the magnetic field, causing the magnetic lines of force to deviate from their previous path.