Verified Solution Science Electricity: Magnetic and Heating Effects

In an electric bell, an electromagnet attracts a soft iron armature, which then breaks the circuit to allow it to return. What would happen if the soft iron armature was replaced with a permanent magnet?

5 views 1 helpful Updated Jun 30, 2026
Solution ✔ Verified
  • AThe bell would ring continuously without stopping.
  • BThe bell would ring only once and then stop.
  • CThe bell would not ring at all.
  • DThe ringing would be louder than usual.
Explanation

The electric bell mechanism relies on the temporary magnetism of the electromagnet attracting the soft iron armature, and then the armature being able to spring back when the electromagnet is demagnetized. If the armature is a permanent magnet, it would either be constantly attracted to the electromagnet's core (due to magnetic interaction or residual magnetism) or repelled, thereby disrupting the crucial make-and-break contact that allows the bell to ring repeatedly. Thus, the bell would not ring at all or would fail to operate correctly.

Was this solution helpful?
1
Practice more questions on Electricity: Magnetic and Heating Effects — download a free worksheet. Download
Not the question you're searching for? + Ask your question