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Description

A simple, magical‑feeling experiment that introduces children to magnetic fields and how forces can act without physical contact.

Resources

- Strong magnet (bar magnet or neodymium magnet works best)
- Paperclip (standard metal, not plastic-coated)
- Piece of string (approx. 30 cm long)
- Sticky tape (to secure the string to the table)
- Optional: A sheet of paper (for the sliding‑through challenge)

Instructions

- Set up the string and paperclip
* Cut a piece of string about 30 cm long.
* Tape one end of the string firmly to the table so it hangs over the edge.
* Tie the paperclip securely to the free end of the string so it dangles freely.

- Create the floating effect
* Hold the strong magnet just below the hanging paperclip.
* Slowly raise the magnet upward.
* Stop when the paperclip is being pulled upward by the magnet but not touching it.
* The clip should appear to “float” in mid-air, held by the magnetic force.

- Add a fun challenge
* Once the paperclip is hovering, give the children a sheet of paper.
* Challenge them to slide the paper between the magnet and the paperclip – without letting the paperclip drop!
They may need to adjust the magnet gently to keep the balance.

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• Experiment - Experiment