Magnets can pull
This Topic is About...
- I will investigate how magnets pull on magnetic materials.
- I will predict which materials will be magnetic.
- I will record what I observe in a table.
You will use careful testing to find out what magnets can do.
Key Words
- attract / attracted
- magnet
- magnetic
- non-magnetic
Tap to Learn the Meanings!
- attract / attracted: To pull something toward you. If an object is attracted to a magnet, the magnet pulls it closer.
- magnet: An object that produces a magnetic force and can attract some metals (like iron and steel).
- magnetic: Able to be attracted to a magnet (usually because it contains iron, nickel, or cobalt).
- non-magnetic: Not attracted to a magnet.
Tip: Test an object with a magnet—if it sticks, it’s magnetic!
Different Types of Magnets
There are lots of different types of magnets.
What “Magnetic” Means
Some materials are magnetic. They are pulled towards magnets. Magnetic materials are pulled towards magnets by a magnetic force. We say that they are attracted to magnets.
Non-magnetic Materials
Materials that are not attracted to magnets are called non-magnetic materials.
Magnets Pull Metal
Anita has lots of different types of magnets. Her magnet is pulling metal paper clips.
Which materials are magnetic?
You will need: a magnet, some materials to test
Arun and Marcus use a magnet to test materials.
The magnets are attracted to magnetic materials.
The magnets are not attracted to non-magnetic materials.
Safety First:
- Keep magnets away from phones, tablets, and computers.
- Do not put magnets near your mouth, nose, or ears.
- Be careful not to pinch your fingers.
Method:
- Choose some materials to test.
- Predict if they are magnetic.
- Hold the magnet close to the material to see if it is magnetic.
- Record your results on a table like this.
Results table:
| Object | Material | Magnetic | Non-magnetic |
|---|---|---|---|
| door | wood | ✓ | |
Follow-up:
Look at your results.
Try to see a pattern.
How am I doing?
Draw a magnet and three different objects which are pulled to it.
Tap to See Answers
- Pattern idea: Objects made of some metals (like iron or steel) are often magnetic. Materials like wood and plastic are usually non-magnetic.
- How am I doing? Good examples to draw are a paper clip, a nail, and a key (if it is metal and gets pulled by the magnet).
Nice work! You tested, recorded, and looked for patterns like a real scientist.
MAGNET QUESTIONS
1. Do you have fridge magnets at home?
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2. Sunil is testing his magnets.
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3. They are attracted to the fridge door. Why?
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4. They are not attracted to the wooden door. Why not?