Physics: Magnetic Muscle

This week the kids did several mini-experiments on magnetism.

• They tested various materials around the house to see if they were magnetic.
• They compared different magnets to see which one was the strongest.
• They explored the effects of rubbing a magnet on an iron nail...apparently being magnetic is contagious!
• They observed how magnets influence the pointer on a compass.
• They mapped out magnetic fields by observing the behavior of iron filings in a plastic container placed next to a magnet.

Next week the kids will use what they have learned to build a compass.