Magnets

Magnets

1. Magnets have invisible magnetic fields which attract and stick onto steel items.
2. One end of a 'bar' magnet is a north pole and the opposite end is a South Pole.
3. If you attach a bar magnet to a piece of wood and float it in a bowl of water, it will slowly turn and the magnet's North Pole will point towards the Earth's North Pole.
4. A compass has a tiny bar magnet in it and it works in the same way, so that explorers can find their way.
5. If you put a bar magnet under a sheet of paper and sprinkle iron powder lightly over the top, you will suddenly see the invisible magnetic field as the particles stick to it.
6. The North Pole of one magnet will repel and push away the North Pole of another magnet.
7. The South Pole of one magnet will repel and push away the South Pole of another magnet.
8. The North Pole of one magnet will attract and stick to the South Pole of another magnet.

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Activity Sheet
Glossary

Video of Magnets