Explanation
In order to explore the physics and engineering behind this design, we need to take a look at basic magnetism. If we look at a standard bar magnet, there are two magnetic poles: north and south. (The north will read positive on a gauss meter and the south will read negative.) In order to map a magnetic field, we look at magnetic flux lines. Magnetic flux lines are a graphical representation of the magnetic field density. They show the direction of flow for the magnetic field and represent relative field strength – the closer together the lines are, the stronger the magnetic field. Flux lines will always travel from the north pole to the nearest south pole and always leave and enter surfaces at 90°, or perpendicular to the surface. They can only travel in straight lines or curved paths, which means they can never make a sudden, abrupt change in direction. Flux lines will also always follow a path of least magnetic resistance. Most importantly, they can never cross one another.
Read more about this topic: Magnetic Level Gauge
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