Safety Tips

This experiment is safe for kids, but adult supervision is recommended. Keep magnets away from electronic devices and credit cards. Never put magnets near your eyes or mouth.

Materials Needed

  • 2-3 different magnets (bar magnets work best)
  • Iron filings (available at science supply stores)
  • White paper (A4 size)
  • Clear plastic sheet or transparency
  • Small container for iron filings
  • Magnifying glass (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1
    Prepare Your Setup

    Place a white paper on a flat surface. Put the clear plastic sheet on top of the paper.

  2. 2
    Position the Magnet

    Place one magnet under the paper, so it's centered. You should be able to see the magnet through the paper.

  3. 3
    Sprinkle Iron Filings

    Carefully sprinkle a small amount of iron filings on top of the plastic sheet, directly above the magnet.

  4. 4
    Observe the Pattern

    Gently tap the plastic sheet to help the filings move. Watch as they align along the magnetic field lines!

  5. 5
    Experiment with Different Magnets

    Try different types of magnets and observe how the field patterns change. You can also try placing two magnets near each other.

What's Happening?

Magnets create invisible magnetic fields around them. These fields are areas where magnetic forces act. The iron filings are attracted to the magnet and align themselves along the magnetic field lines, making the invisible field visible! The pattern you see shows the direction and strength of the magnetic field.

Key Concepts

  • Magnetic Field: The invisible area around a magnet where magnetic forces act
  • Field Lines: Lines that show the direction of the magnetic field
  • Poles: Magnets have north and south poles where the field is strongest
  • Attraction: Iron filings are attracted to the magnetic field