Aug 12 2023

Selects: How Magnets Work

Selects 36 min 2 movies discussed
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You can stick them to the fridge or use them to transpose sound to tape, whatever they are used for magnets are surprisingly interesting. And knowing just exactly how and why magnets work will make you more interesting, which is why you should listen to this classic episode of SYSK.

AI Summary

# Summary

In this classic 2013 episode, Josh and Chuck dive deep into the fascinating world of magnets, exploring everything from ancient lodestones discovered in Greece to cutting-edge applications like MRI machines and maglev trains. They break down how magnets work at both the practical level—with magnetic domains aligning in the same direction—and at the atomic level, explaining the role of unpaired electrons spinning in the same way in ferrous materials like iron, nickel, and cobalt. Beyond the science, the hosts discuss the surprising everyday uses of magnets in speakers, doorbells, and roller coaster braking systems, plus some fascinating medical applications and debunk the popular but unproven claims about magnetic therapy bracelets and magnetized water.


Movies Discussed

🎬
Peter Cook and Dudley Moore: The Missing Sketches
2016
"Not an etch a sketch, not a Hugo, something like that. — Mentioned while trying to remember the name of a vintage toy with iron filings that could be moved around to create facial hair." — Chuck
The Edge
The Edge
1997 1h 57m
★ 6.8
"For anyone who's seen that movie with Alec Baldwin and Anthony Hopkins, the Edge. — Referenced as an example of characters magnetizing a needle and using it to determine direction, similar to early compass-making techniques." — Chuck

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