How do magnets repel and attract each other?

Magnetism comes from moving electric charges and the quantum behavior of electrons in atoms. In ordinary magnets, many electron magnetic moments align in the same direction, creating a strong net field. When two magnets are brought together, their fields interact, producing attraction if opposite poles face each other and repulsion if like poles face. This effect is part of electromagnetism and is described by Maxwell’s equations. Magnetic forces are what allow compasses to work and power technologies such as electric motors and generators.