Magnets
Push and pull
Duration: 2:03
Why does a magnet stay on the fridge? Join our little explorer and test the invisible superpower of magnets!
In short
A magnet can pull some things toward it without touching them: this invisible pull is called a magnetic force. Magnets pull things made of iron or steel, like paper clips, nails and a fridge door, but not wood, plastic or paper, and not every metal: a soda can does not stick. Every magnet has two ends called poles, a north pole and a south pole. Opposite poles attract, and the same poles push each other away. Pushes and pulls are forces, and forces can make things move. Magnets can even work through paper.
What you will learn
- What a magnet is, and what a magnetic force is
- Which things a magnet pulls: things made of iron or steel
- Which things it does not pull: wood, plastic, paper, and even a soda can
- Every magnet has a north pole and a south pole
- Opposite poles attract, and the same poles push away
- Pushes and pulls are forces that can make things move
- Magnets can even work through paper!
Let's talk about it
Questions to ask after watching, at home or in class. Tap a question to see a short answer.
Which things in your home could a magnet pull?
Things made of iron or steel, like paper clips, nails or the fridge door.
What happens when you put a north pole next to a south pole?
They pull together and snap: opposite poles attract.
Why should a magnet never go in your mouth?
A small magnet could be swallowed, and that is dangerous. Magnets are for playing with your hands.
