A magnet attracts which of the following?

Correct option is D

Correct Answer: D. Iron

A magnet attracts iron because iron is a ferromagnetic material, meaning it has strong magnetic properties and can be magnetized. Magnets produce a magnetic field, which aligns the atomic structure of iron, causing it to be attracted to the magnet.

• Ferromagnetic materials (strongly attracted to magnets):

  • Iron (Fe)
  • Cobalt (Co)
  • Nickel (Ni)
  • Some alloys (e.g., steel)

• Other materials and magnetism:

  • Plastics : Non-magnetic, insulating material that does not interact with magnets.
  • Carbon : Exists in non-magnetic forms like graphite and diamond.
  • Aluminium : A paramagnetic metal, which means it is weakly affected by magnetic fields but not attracted to magnets.

• Magnets are used in:
  • Electric motors and generators.
  • Magnetic locks and compasses.
  • MRI machines in medical imaging.