If you have ever visited our FAQs page, you may have come across this question: 

Do you sell single pole or monopole magnets?

Answer: They do not exist. By definition, all magnets have two poles.

While this seems straightforward, one might wonder why this myth has garnered so much popularity. Today, we will look at why so many people believe monopole magnets are regularly available for purchase and why they do not exist. 

Why So Many Believe Monopoles Exist

All magnets have a north and south pole. Yet, those who are new to magnets may expect a magnet’s properties to change if adaptations are made. For example, there is a belief that cutting a magnet means the new “end” loses its magnetic properties. The result of this is a monopole magnet. This, as we know, is not correct. Instead, the result will be a dipole magnet, a smaller magnet with equal electron charges/poles. With this concept in mind, you can see why monopole magnets cannot exist even after changes have occurred to the original magnet.

 

Some stores add to this confusion by advertising monopoles for sale. If you come across these listings, know that they are misleading you. In most cases, the other end of the magnet is covered with an adhesive but that does not mean the magnet has one pole. Once again, some folks fall for this and are left with the impression they just purchased a genuine monopole magnet. This, in turn, adds to the widespread misconception about monopoles. 

Could There Be Monopole Magnets?

While monopoles do not exist, numerous researchers continue to try and prove that they are real. Data on the topic dates back to the 1930s when physicist Paul Dirac conducted research in which he concluded the existence of monopoles would be consistent with the properties of quantum physics. Further studies in the 1970s were said to confirm his suspicions. Despite a mix of old data and a slew of new research from the ATLAS experiment, which used Dirac’s research, no monopole magnets have been discovered.

Learn More About Magnets with Apex

If you are interested in learning more about magnets, we have multiple resources to help you. Visit our FAQs page for answers to your questions, our glossary to learn about key magnetic terms, or read some of our other blogs to read up on the exciting world of magnets. When you are ready to place your order, feel free to give us a call at 1-304-257-1193 to speak with one of our friendly associates. We are always happy to help!