Magnetism and Temperature Kit

Picking up a chain of paperclips with a magnet can amuse students for hours. How many paperclips will it hold? Will adding one more cause them all to fall? But the Magnetism and Temperature Kit goes beyond simple amusement. With this kit, kids not only have fun but also gain solid science knowledge.

Through hands-on experiments, kids discover how the strength of a magnet varies with temperature. But why would that even matter?

Physicists sometimes study matter under extreme conditions, like for space shuttle design. For example, the exterior of a space shuttle is made from special tiles. They undergo testing to make sure they can withstand the crushing pressure and wild temperature swings of space travel. Likewise, scientists also need magnets that function well in the cold emptiness of space.

Now you can experiment similarly with a Magnetism and Temperature Kit. Simulate extreme conditions in your kitchen, then test how magnets perform.

Note: This kit tests only permanent magnets.

Instructions for this kit are available online. See below links to the instructions and more.

You will also need from home:

• Plastic tongs for holding magnets
• Heat-resistant glove or oven mitts
• Flat surface or plate 
• Freezer
• Ice cubes
• Large plastic bowl
• Water
• Stove or hot plate
• Sauce pan or pot
• Lab notebook

Instructions are NOT included with the kit, but are available online from Science Buddies.

Each Magnetism and Temperature Kit contains:

• Pocket Scale, 500 g x 0.1 g
• Paper Clips
• Thermometer
• Ring Magnet, 4.5” OD