Question

why are force fields used to describe magnetic force?
a. magnetic force can only attract objects.
b. magnetic force acts between two objects that are not touching.
c. magnetic force acts between any two objects with mass.
d. magnetic force is a form of gravity

Explanation:

• Magnetic force is a non - contact force. Force fields (like magnetic fields) are used to describe non - contact forces.
• Option A: Magnetic force can both attract and repel (e.g., like poles repel, unlike poles attract), so this is incorrect.
• Option B: Magnetic force acts between two objects that are not touching (e.g., a magnet can attract a nail from a distance), and force fields are used to explain such non - contact interactions. This is correct.
• Option C: Magnetic force acts between magnetic materials (not any two objects with mass. Gravitational force acts between any two objects with mass), so this is incorrect.
• Option D: Magnetic force and gravity are different fundamental forces. Gravity is related to mass, and magnetic force is related to magnetic materials and magnetic fields, so this is incorrect.

Answer:

B. Magnetic force acts between two objects that are not touching.