About Magnetism


Magnetism is a class of physical phenomena that are mediated by magnetic fields. Electric currents and the magnetic moments of elementary particles give rise to a magnetic field, which acts on other currents and magnetic moments. Every material is influenced to some extent by a magnetic field.

For Teachers


Key Concepts

Magnetic Fields radiate from the N to the S side of a magnet in a predictable way. By changing the shape of the magnet, these fields change shape.

Topics Addressed

  • Forces and Interactions
  • Magnetism
  • Magnets
  • Magnetic Poles
  • North and South Poles
  • Magnetic Fields

Standards Covered

  • MS-PS2-3
  • MS-PS2-5

Goals

Magnet Hunt will support exploration of the following concepts:

  • What is a magnet anyway?
  • Magnetic fields
  • If you are closer to the north part of the magnet the North part of the compass will push away from the pole.
  • There is a gradient as you move around the magnet. There is a fancy math equation that helps scientists visualize this. c1xc/d²
  • How magnetic fields interact with each other