Simple Magnet Experiments

Hold a magnet near a paper clip and watch it jump through the air without being touched! Magnets exert an invisible force that can pull certain materials toward them — and even push other magnets away — all without touching anything. That invisible force is called magnetism.

What is magnetic?

• Only materials that contain iron, nickel, or cobalt are attracted to magnets.
• Magnetic materials: iron nails, steel paper clips, steel cans, some coins, refrigerator doors.
• Non-magnetic materials: wood, plastic, rubber, glass, aluminum foil, copper, most fabrics.
• A quick rule: if it rusts, it is probably magnetic!

Poles — North and South

• Every magnet has two ends called poles — a north pole (N) and a south pole (S).
• The magnetic force is strongest at the poles.
• Opposite poles attract — N and S pull toward each other.
• Same poles repel — N and N (or S and S) push away from each other.
• Memory trick: opposites attract, same repels!

Magnetic field

• The area around a magnet where its force can be felt is called the magnetic field.
• The field is invisible, but you can see its shape by sprinkling iron filings around a magnet — they line up along curved paths called field lines from pole to pole.

Real-life uses of magnets

• Compass needles — a magnetized needle points north.
• Refrigerator door seals, cabinet latches, electric motors, MRI machines in hospitals, credit card strips.