Induced Magnetism in Soft Iron

Steps:

• Permanent magnet induces opposite poles in the nearest end of the first paper clip, attracting it.
• This magnetized clip induces opposite poles in the next clip, forming a chain.
• Soft iron materials magnetize easily but lose magnetism quickly without an external field.
• Removing the permanent magnet eliminates the inducing field, demagnetizing soft iron clips.

Why B is correct:

• Soft iron exhibits low magnetic retentivity, demagnetizing fully when the external magnetic field from the permanent magnet is removed (Hysteresis loop property).

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Induced polarity depends on the magnet's pole; tops would be south only if suspended from the north pole, not generally true.
• C: Steel has high retentivity, retaining induced magnetism as a weak permanent magnet after removal.
• D: Suspension capacity is symmetric for north and south poles of the magnet.

Final answer: B