Hands-On Wednesday: Magnet Jar

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Explore magnetic fields by making your own magnet jar! Magnetic objects can either attract or repel other magnetic objects. All magnetic objects have magnetic poles where magnetic field lines begin and end. One pole is positive and the other is negative. Try it out and see how many fun shapes you can make with the magnets!

Materials:

  • Steel wool or metallic powder
  • Cup or Jar
  • Lid
  • Tape
  • Scissors
  • Magnet

How To:

  1. Fill the cup with some metallic powder or cut up steel wool.
  2. Tape the top of the cup or put the lid on. Make sure the tape or lid is on tightly!
  3. Move your magnet around the cup or jar to see what happens!
  4. Use the magnet to clean up any excess magnetic powder or steel wool.