Red Seal Electrician Practice
Magnetism and electromagnetismQuestion 168 of 1506

Why do unlike poles attract when they are put near each other?

  1. The flux lines pull tight like rubber bands
  2. The flux lines are cut and rejoined
  3. The flux lines cross over each other
  4. The air gap blocks the flux lines
Show answer

Correct answer: The flux lines pull tight like rubber bands

Flux lines act like stretched rubber bands. With unlike poles side by side, the lines shorten and the two magnets pull together.

Source: Electrical Fundamentals Competency (Industry Training Authority of BC), 3.1: Magnetic Fields

Practice magnetism and electromagnetism

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026