What is a permanent magnet?

Modern permanent magnets are made of special alloys that have been found through research to create increasingly better magnets. Permanent magnets have a magnetic field that does not turn on and off like electromagnets. Permanent magnets are often used for motors, generators, televisions, etc. The most common families of magnet materials today are ones made out of Aluminum-Nickel-Cobalt, Strontium-Iron (Ferrites, also known as ceramic), Neodymium-Iron-Boron (sometimes referred to as "strong magnets"), and Samarium Cobalt. The Samarium Cobalt and Neodymium Iron Boron families are collectively known as Rare Earth magnets.