Magnetic Field

The magnetic lines of force of a bar magnet and a horse-shoe magnet can be shown by sprinkling iron fillings over them. It is clear and easily visible by the whole class when done on the overhead projector. Place the permanent magnets under a thin plexiglas’s plate (to avoid having the iron fillings stuck to the magnets nor to the projector) and sprinkle iron fillings lightly. The iron fillings align themselves with the magnetic field.

This experiment demonstrates the three dimensional field lines of a magnetic bar. The three dimensional cube contains some liquid and iron powders in it. The iron powder can move freely in the cube. A hole in the middle of the cube allows us to insert a magnetic bar. When the magnetic bar is inserted, the iron powder will show the magnetic field lines inside the cube due to the magnetic bar.

This clear plastic case makes it possible to observe a magnetic field in 3-D.Each side of the field demonstrator contains iron filings, and the center of the demonstrator houses a powerful magnet. The demonstrator can open down the center, making it possible to view the magnetic field from all angles.

Click here to see a video clip of this demo.

This demonstrates the three dimensional field line of a magnetic bar. Two type of magnets is used for this demo. One is the pole magnet and the other is a horseshoe magnet. Each has cross sectional planes with compass needles that shows the direction of the magnets field lines.

Neodymium is one of the most powerful magnet materials of the world and has high resistance to demagnization.

Ferrofluid is an incredible substance which is in liquid form until a strong magnetic field is brought near it. As the magnet comes closer to the ferrofluid, spikes begin to rise from it. Ferrofluid, a colloid with magnetic nanoparticles suspended in an oil base, was originally discovered by NASA scientists. Now ferrofluids are used to make rotating seals in high vacuum equipment and can be even found in high-end speakers.

Click here to see a video of this demo.

This material has millions of tiny micron-sized magnets that are embedded in each handful of thinking putty. Use the included super-strong ceramic magnet to control the putty like a snake charmer. Or “charge” the blob of putty so it can become a magnet of its own and pick up small tacks and paperclips.