How to make a homemade magnet
Materials Needed
- A metal object that is attracted to a magnet (like a nail, paperclip, or screwdriver).
- A strong magnet.
- (Optional) A small bowl of paper clips or pins to test your magnet.
Instructions
1. Choose a Metal Object
Pick an item containing iron that is attracted to a magnet. A nail or a straightened paperclip works great.
2. Magnetise the Metal Object
- Take the strong magnet and rub it along the metal object in one direction only.
- Do not go back and forth! Always start at one end of the object and move to the other end in a single stroke.
- Repeat this rubbing motion 20-30 times. When you rub the magnet in one direction, it aligns the electron spins in the same direction turning the object into a magnet.
3. Test Your Magnet
- Bring your newly magnetised object close to some small metal items, like paper clips or pins.
- If it picks them up, congratulations! You've made a magnet.
How Long Does It Last?
The magnetism of your new magnet may fade over time. To re-magnetise it, repeat the same steps.
