electric current creates a magnetic field; opposite magnetic poles attract each other, and like magnetic poles repel each other; and current direction determines the magnetic poles. an electric motor consists of a stationary magnet and a moving conductor. a permanent magnetic field is formed by the lines of force between the poles of the magnet. when electricity passes through the conductor in a DC motor, the conductor becomes an electromagnet and generates another magnetic field. the twin fields increase in intensity and push against the conductor. the direction of rotation in a motor is determined by these strong magnetic fields.