Yes! The ability to switch an electromagnet’s current on and off has several advantages. One advantage is that when an electromagnet is not in use, it may be powered off for safe, risk free transfer. If handing a permanent magnet, the magnetic field will remain present, and could result in inconveniences or injury if the permanent magnet is allowed to be attracted to unwanted items when being transported. The ability to switch an electromagnet’s current on and off is what enables the unique portative feature of electromagnets. When the electromagnet’s magnetic field is turned on, it can pick up an item such as a heavy metal sheet and safely hold it while the item is traveling across a warehouse, for example. Then, once the item reaches its destination, the electromagnet can be turned off, allowing for safe release of the item.