How Do Neodymium Magnets Work?
Every atom of iron and neodymium acts like a tiny magnet because of its electrons. In a neodymium magnet, these atomic magnets are grouped into magnetic domains that are all aligned in one direction during manufacturing. The Nd₂Fe₁₄B crystal strongly resists being turned, so the alignment stays locked in, and together the domains create a strong field with a north and a south pole.
From Atoms to a Magnet, in Three Steps
- Electron SpinUnpaired electrons give each iron and neodymium atom a tiny magnetic moment
- DomainsNeighboring atoms line up in small regions called domains
- MagnetizationA powerful pulse field lines up every domain in the same direction
- Locked InThe NdFeB crystal resists turning, so the magnet stays magnetized
Why Neodymium Magnets Are So Strong
Iron supplies a large magnetic moment. Neodymium makes the crystal hold its direction very firmly, which magnet engineers call high magnetic anisotropy or high coercivity. The result is a material that stores a lot of magnetic energy and resists being demagnetized. That’s what the N number on a grade measures. See what the N rating means.
Where the Field Goes
Outside the magnet, the field runs from the north pole to the south pole. It’s strongest right at the pole faces and drops off quickly with distance, which is why even a thin gap reduces holding power. Learn more about magnetic field lines.