Magnets come in various shapes and sizes, such as discs, spheres, horseshoes, and many other unique shapes. Usually, larger magnets are stronger, but now it's always the case. Small magnets can be improved to increase strength by using different materials. However, the shape of a magnet can tell you much more than its size. The shape of each magnet affects its usage. It determines the arrangement of magnetic field lines outside the magnet and their tensile strength. What are the common shapes of magnets and how to use them?

Bar magnet

The force of the magnet is concentrated at both poles and weakens on both sides. A bar magnet is usually the weakest shape because the area of the magnetic pole is the smallest. However, they are the most commonly used shapes in daily life, such as refrigerator stickers and compasses.

Bar magnets are also commonly used for classroom demonstrations. For example, you can use a bar magnet to display the magnetic field by spreading metal shavings on a piece of paper that hides the magnet.