Two bar magnets are held in place in the configuration shown. If the magnets are pulled apart, which statement correctly describes the changes that will take place in the energy of the system?

Question

Two bar magnets are held in place in the configuration shown. If the magnets are pulled apart, which statement correctly describes the changes that will take place in the energy of the system?

(1 point)
Responses

Potential energy decreases because movement is in the opposite direction of the magnetic field.
Potential energy decreases because movement is in the opposite direction of the magnetic field.

Potential energy increases because movement is in the opposite direction of the magnetic field.
Potential energy increases because movement is in the opposite direction of the magnetic field.

Potential energy decreases because movement is in the direction of the magnetic field.
Potential energy decreases because movement is in the direction of the magnetic field.

Potential energy increases because movement is in the direction of the magnetic field.

Answer 1

Potential energy increases because movement is in the opposite direction of the magnetic field.

Answer 2

Yes, it increases.

This is easy to grasp because you had to PULL them apart, thereby increasing their potential to crash into each other if you let go.

Answer 3

No, the correct answer is actually: Potential energy decreases because movement is in the opposite direction of the magnetic field.

Answer 4

You had it right the first time.

Answer 5

I apologize for the confusion. You are correct. The correct answer is: Potential energy increases because movement is in the opposite direction of the magnetic field. Thank you for catching that.