The statement that the magnetic force does not do work refers to the fact that the work done by a magnetic field on a charged particle is zero. However, when a magnet attracts other metals, it is not directly due to the magnetic field doing work on the objects.
The attraction between a magnet and a metal object, such as iron, is a result of magnetic forces exerted on the electrons within the metal. When a magnet is brought close to a metal object, the magnetic field of the magnet induces a rearrangement of the electrons in the metal. This rearrangement creates temporary poles within the metal, aligning the electrons in a way that produces a magnetic field opposing the magnet's field.
The opposing magnetic field generated within the metal induces a force on the metal object, causing it to move towards the magnet. This force is often referred to as a magnetic attraction. It's important to note that this force does not involve the magnetic field of the magnet doing work on the metal object. Instead, it's a result of the rearrangement and interaction of the electrons within the metal.
In summary, the magnetic force between a magnet and a metal object does not do work on the objects involved. The magnet induces a rearrangement of electrons within the metal, creating a temporary magnetic field that interacts with the magnet's field, resulting in an attractive force between the two.