Magnet Science Experiments for April 1st
Since today is renowned for its trickery, we’re honoring it with some cool science experiments that are great in classroom and learning settings to show the relationship between magic and science.
Iron Filings Demonstration
When magnets interact with iron filings it is a great way to show magnetic lines of force. You can show this interaction in many ways. One neat way to show magnetic lines is with a 3-D Magnetic Field Demonstrator. The hinged design allows the case to be opened to view the magnet inside and the lines of force in 2D and 3D.Magnetic Levitation
With this fun experiment, you may be able to trick your pupils into believing you are a magician. Although magnetic levitation may seem magical, it can easily be explained with science. For a simple magnetic levitation experiment, all you need is:Supplies
Steps
- Place a small neodymium magnet between 2 blocks of pyrolytic graphite.
- Hold a helper magnet above the blocks to provide lift. After a bit of trial and error, you will find the point at which the small magnet will levitate.
- To suspend the magnet indefinitely, you can create an apparatus to hold each piece in place.