# What could magnetic monopoles do that electrically charged particles can't?

I understand the significance to physics, but what can a magnetic monopole be used for assuming we could free them from spin ice and put them to work? What would be a magnetic version of electricity?

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I suspect nothing, since electric charches $e$ and magnetic charges $q$ are related by $e\, q = 2 \pi$. Both interact with photons, and the magnetic south and nord poles would just take the role of positive and negative electric charges. –  Dilaton Jun 8 at 19:25
@Dilaton In the spin Ice model considered by the OP, we cannot say that eg=2$\pi$. These are quasi particles, and ends are connected by dirac string like object which can be observed through interference experiments. –  Prathyush Jun 9 at 1:32
@Dilaton From what I can tell you're correct even if e q != 2π in spin ice. –  user6972 Jun 9 at 17:45
Charge dissipates and flows. Magnetic monopole would quite stable upon contact with something. –  Waqar Ahmad Oct 7 at 5:35

Partly related to your question, Artificial Magnetic Monopoles Discovered, from an article in ScienceDaily just late last month. The monopoles apparently act the same as the ends of a dipole magnet, as has been suggested by Dilaton in the comment above. A more comprehensive article is from Particle Data Group.

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From the article: "Many groups worldwide are currently researching the question of whether magnetic whirls could be used in the production of computer components." How so? –  user6972 Jun 9 at 17:30
I am not entirely sure, but it is indeed interesting, something worthwhile for you to research. –  user24901 Jun 10 at 9:33