Fascinating Facts About Magnets

What is a Magnet?

• A magnet is an object that produces a magnetic field.
• The magnetic field is invisible but can be visualized using iron filings.
• Molecules within magnets are arranged with aligned electron spins, creating two poles.

Magnetic Poles and Attraction

• Magnets have a north pole and a south pole.
• Like poles repel, while unlike poles attract.
• Magnets attract certain metals like iron, steel, nickel, and cobalt but not materials like glass, paper, plastic, or wood.

Types of Magnets

• There are various types of magnets, including air-core magnets, electromagnets, and permanent magnets.
• The Earth is a large natural magnet, with its core generating a magnetic field.

The Earth’s Magnetic Field

• The Earth’s magnetic field protects the planet from solar winds.
• Magnetic compasses rely on the Earth’s magnetic field for navigation.

Powerful Magnets

• Neutron stars, collapsed stars, have the strongest magnetic forces in the universe.
• Electromagnets can be created using electricity and a wire wrapped around an iron bar.

Learn More About Magnets

Enroll in our science holiday camps or science classes to explore the wonders of magnets and magnetism!