Magnet Science

From the discovery of the lodestone to the use of magnetic technology in the space programme, this is an introduction to the science of magnets for the young reader. It looks at what gives magnets their power of attraction, how compasses help sailors to find their way around the globe, how a magnet can be made to float in mid-air, and what magnets have to do with space exploration. The experiments suggested include: turning ordinary nails and wire into a magnet; investigating different objects to see which are attracted by magnets; and magnetizing a screwdriver.