Affect Things

Magnets are objects that move other things by pushing or pulling them. Most magnets are made of metal. They can make other objects move without touching them. They do this by pulling or pushing other objects that are made of metal. Some things that magnets can move are paper clips and pins. Magnets cannot move wood or plastic.

Magnets attract objects that are made of iron, steel, nickel, or cobalt. All of these metals are magnetic.

In this picture, the magnet is holding a small bag of nails.

Picture by Chelsea and Chris

Many magnets are very small and help us with simple tasks, like holding notes on boards. Other magnets are huge, and do things like help pick up cars. The strongest part of any magnet is the end or tip.

Pieces of iron can become magnets. If you take a needle and stroke it along a magnet, then the needle will become a magnet, too.

Picture by Conner

To learn more about how magnets affect other things, visit this web site:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/scienceclips/ages/7_8/magnets_springs.shtml

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