Question

Compare the magnetic properties of steel and soft iron.

Hint:

Steel = High retentivity, used for permanent magnets. Soft iron = Low retentivity, used for electromagnets.

Answer 1

Steel and soft iron are both ferromagnetic materials, but they exhibit distinct differences in their magnetic properties. The key differences are:
1. Magnetic Retention:
- Steel has a high retentivity, meaning it retains its magnetization even after the external magnetic field is removed. This property makes steel suitable for permanent magnets.
- Soft iron, on the other hand, has a low retentivity, meaning it loses its magnetization quickly when the external magnetic field is removed. This makes soft iron ideal for use in electromagnets, where quick magnetization and demagnetization are required.
2. Magnetic Susceptibility:
- Steel generally has a lower magnetic susceptibility compared to soft iron. This means that steel is not as easily magnetized as soft iron.
- Soft iron has a higher magnetic susceptibility, making it more easily magnetized and demagnetized than steel. It responds more readily to external magnetic fields.
In conclusion, steel is used for permanent magnets due to its high retentivity, while soft iron is used for electromagnets due to its ability to be easily magnetized and demagnetized.