Magnetism is a class of physical phenomena that are mediated by magnetic fields. Electric currents and the magnetic moments of elementary particles give rise to a magnetic field, which acts on other currents and magnetic moments. Magnetism is one aspect of the combined phenomenon of electromagnetism. Magnetism is the force exerted by magnets when they attract or repel each other. The motion of electric charges causes magnetism. Every substance is made up of tiny units called atoms. Each atom has electrons, particles that carry electric charges. Every substance is made up of tiny units called atoms. Each atom has electrons, particles that carry electric charges. Spinning is like tops, the electrons circle the nucleus, or core, of an atom. Their movement generates an electric current and causes each electron to act like a microscopic magnet. Artificial magnets are made of iron or steel. They are made of different shapes, namely the bar magnet, cylindrical magnet, U-shaped magnet, horseshoe magnet, magnetic needle and compass.