Experiment with Magnets
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Learning Objectives
- 1Describe magnetic force and explain what makes a material magnetic
- 2Distinguish between the north and south poles of a magnet
- 3Plan and carry out a fair test using magnets
Mini Lesson
A magnet is an object that produces a magnetic field — an invisible force that attracts certain metals. Magnets attract materials that contain iron, nickel, or steel. They do not attract wood, plastic, glass, rubber, or aluminum. The magnetic force can act through air and through some thin materials.
Poles of a Magnet
- Every magnet has two poles: a north (N) pole and a south (S) pole.
- Opposite poles attract: N attracts S, and S attracts N.
- Same poles repel: N pushes away N, and S pushes away S.
- The magnetic force is strongest at the poles.
Magnetic vs Non-Magnetic Materials
- Magnetic: iron, nickel, steel (e.g. paperclips, nails, screws).
- Non-magnetic: plastic, wood, glass, rubber, aluminum foil.
Planning a Fair Test
- Write your question: "Which materials are attracted to a magnet?"
- Make a prediction: list which items you think will be attracted.
- Gather materials: various objects, a bar magnet, a recording table.
- Test each object: hold the magnet near it and record "attracted" or "not attracted".
- Draw a conclusion: compare your results to your prediction.
For a fair test, keep the distance between the magnet and each object the same. Use a ruler to measure 1 cm each time.
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