Ask your own question, for FREE!
Physics 22 Online
OpenStudy (anonymous):

one of the ways that a magnets domain could become unaligned is which of the following?

OpenStudy (anonymous):

It would be easier if you post "the following" as well

OpenStudy (theeric):

I was hoping you'd come online. But here's the answer, hidden cryptically because I don't like giving answers away. I believe the magnet's domains are matrix structures of atoms, each in which atomic magnetic fields align. (Each atom of a ferromagnetic substance has an extending magnetic field associated with it.) A magnet would have many atoms. Due to the nature of the structure, different domains form (groups of atoms pointing in certain ways). All these magnetic fields cancel each other out at most points. When domains are more aligned, though, you don't have so much "canceling." You have these magnetic fields aligned and thus better extended. These are still atoms, however. They're subject to all things that affect atoms, like gained energy through heat, or vibration from impact. As atoms gain energy, they are more independent from other forces, like magnetic weak attraction. Impact might also disturb the atomic structure. And both will cause a shift in the domains and their alignment if they are hot enough or vibrated enough. After the domains return to a state of some random directions, the magnetic field is just as it was before. With no great magnetic alignment, fields cancel each other out, and the overall magnetic field of the magnet diminishes some. It's there :) I think it will help and give you the answer. Use the "@" symbol to notify me if you want more help, like, "@theEric, can you explain what you meant by _____?"

Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!
Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!