Fun Magnet Facts For Kids
Invisible magnetic fields
Magnets have invisible magnetic fields which attract and stick onto steel items.
North and south poles
One end of a 'bar' magnet is a north pole and the opposite end is a South Pole.
Earths poles
If you attach a bar magnet to a piece of wood and float it in a bowl of water, it will slowly turn and the magnet's North Pole will point towards the Earth's North Pole.
A compass
A compass has a tiny bar magnet in it and it works in the same way, so that explorers can find their way.
Iron powder
If you put a bar magnet under a sheet of paper and sprinkle iron powder lightly over the top, you will suddenly see the invisible magnetic field as the particles stick to it.
North pole repel
The North Pole of one magnet will repel and push away the North Pole of another magnet.
South pole repel
The South Pole of one magnet will repel and push away the SouthPole of another magnet.
Attract
The North Pole of one magnet will attract and stick to the South Pole of another magnet.