See the Magnetic Field
In this magnetism science experiment, we are going to find out if we can see the magnetic field
What You Will Need
- Gloves
- Steel wool
- Scissors
- Two pieces of paper
- Bar magnet
Instruction
- Under the supervision of a trusted adult, put on gloves and use the scissors to cut the steel wool into small, thin thread over one sheet of paper.
- Place the bar magnet on a table.
- Centre the other piece of paper over the bar magnet.
- Gently pour the steel wool thread onto the paper with the magnet underneath.
- Now gently pound on the table and observe the movement of the steel wool thread.
What Is Happening?
The fragments of steel wool are mostly made of iron. The magnetic field essentially turns each fragment into a miniature bar magnet. The north pole of each fragment then attracts the south poles of nearby fragments. This happens over and over. It creates chains of filings that align themselves and parallels the magnetic field allowing you to see the magnetic field.
