Magnets can do some amazing things -- like accelerate a train at speeds over 300 mph or power a MRI to look through the human body. However, sometimes its just fun to conduct experiments with them. One interesting experiment to do is to make a paperclip levitate, or seem to float in midair. The experiment is about as simple as it gets, and you can do it with everyday items that you probably have laying around your house. Here’s how you can do it.

Supplies

Steps

  1. Cut a piece of thread about 4 to 5 inches long.
  2. Tie it to the end of a paperclip.
  3. Tape the other end of the thread to a stationary object like a desk or table.
  4. Take your strong magnet and place it above the paperclip. Since the paperclip is made of steel, which is a magnetic material, it will seem to reach up to make contact with the magnet.
  5. If it does touch the magnet, gently pull it away leaving it close to the paperclip but not touching. This is when the paperclip should seem like it is levitating or floating.
If you are still having trouble getting the magnet to float, try using weaker types of magnets like fridge or plastic coated magnets. You can also try attaching the string to the end of a table or desk ledge, so that the paperclip is hanging off the side. When you bring the magnet near the paperclip it will try to attach itself. As you move the magnet from side to side the paperclip will follow as if it is flying in the air. This is one of the simplest experiments that you can do, but it can also be a lot of fun. What experiments are you doing with magnets? Feel free to share them with us in the comments. Photo by Alvesgaspar