model shows the magnetic field of a current carrying wire.

The electric current produced by the battery moves radially through the magnet which has a magnetic field along its longitudinal axis. The resulting Lorentz force in the tangential direction produces a torque in the magnet making the magnet with the attached screw to rotate. In contrast to other electrical motors, both the orientation and magnitude of the magnetic field and the electric current do not change.

A spinning magnet made by Levitron levitates over a permanent magnet.

Robby the Seal can balance the ball on his nose or when he approaches the ball it begins to spin.