Magnets and Magnetism

What Is a Magnet?#

Have you ever held two magnets near each other and felt them pull together? Or maybe they pushed each other away? That is the power of magnetism!

A magnet is an object that creates an invisible force called a magnetic force. This force can pull some materials toward it or push other magnets away.

Magnets come in many shapes and sizes. Some are shaped like a bar. Some are round like a horseshö. Some are small round dots called button magnets. You may even have flat magnets on your refrigerator at home!

No matter the shape, all magnets have the same special ability: they create a magnetic field around them. A magnetic field is an invisible area of force that surrounds the magnet. You cannot see it, but you can feel it when you hold a magnet near something metal.

What Do Magnets Attract?#

Magnets do not attract every material. They only pull certain things. Materials that are attracted to magnets are called magnetic materials.

Magnetic materials include:

• Iron — most nails and screws are made of iron
• Steel — many coins and cans are made of steel
• Nickel — some coins contain nickel
• Cobalt — a metal used in some tools

Materials that are not attracted to magnets include:

• Wood
• Plastic
• Glass
• Paper
• Rubber
• Aluminum foil

Trying It Out#

You can test a magnet at home! Collect small objects — a paper clip, an eraser, a coin, a piece of foil, and a pebble. Hold a magnet near each one. Which ones stick? Which ones stay put? The ones that are pulled toward the magnet are made of magnetic materials!

Magnets are amazing tools that scientists, engineers, and everyday people use all the time. Let's learn even more about them!