Making Magnets
Recommended for grades K–5.
Introduction
Have you ever wondered how a magnet is made? In this activity, you will turn an ordinary nail into a temporary magnet. You will then use the Magnetic Field Sensor to compare the temporary magnet that you made with the permanent magnet you used to make it. After you are done, you will use the temporary magnet to pick up a paper clip.
Objectives
In this activity, you will
- Make observations about the magnetic fields of objects.
- Use a permanent magnet to make a temporary magnet.
- Use a Magnetic Field Sensor to measure the magnetic field of magnets.
- Look for relationships between the permanent magnet and temporary magnet.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
See all standards correlations for Elementary Science with Vernier »
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.