In magnetism, how do magnetic poles interact with each other?

• A. All magnetic poles always attract regardless of orientation.
• B. Like poles attract, and unlike poles repel.
• C. Like poles repel, and unlike poles attract.
• D. Magnetic poles do not exert forces on each other; only electric charges do.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of magnetic poles: every magnet has two poles, called the north (N) and south (S) poles.
2. Recall the fundamental rule of magnetic pole interaction: like poles repel each other, and unlike poles attract each other.
3. Visualize or consider two magnets placed near each other; if the north pole of one magnet faces the north pole of another, they will push away (repel).
4. If the north pole of one magnet faces the south pole of another, they will pull towards each other (attract).
5. Recognize that magnetic poles exert forces on each other directly, unlike the incorrect statement that only electric charges exert forces.