Question

1. which of the following best explains why a magnet can make a paperclip move without touching it? a. friction is pulling the paperclip toward the magnet. b. gravity is pulling the paperclip into the air. c. a magnetic force is acting at a distance. d. the magnet applies a normal force to the paperclip. clear all

Explanation:

Magnets can exert a force on magnetic - materials like a paperclip from a distance due to the magnetic field. Friction is a contact force and gravity acts on all objects with mass in a general downward - direction and is not specific to the interaction between a magnet and a paperclip. A normal force is a contact force perpendicular to the surface of contact. The key concept here is that a magnetic force can act at a distance.

Answer:

A magnetic force is acting at a distance.