
After being heated, the particles are randomly aligned and oppose one another, canceling out the magnetic force that they once produced entirely.Īnother fun investigatory project example is the demonstration of magnetism, especially for younger audiences, as this experiment is both easy and safe. Because each particle gave off a magnetic force, they complimented each other and created a large magnetic force along that axis. Prior to being heated, the particles were all aligned along one axis. This is because the heat has rearranged the magnetic particles present within the magnet. You should observe that the magnet no longer has any magnetic properties. Let the magnet cool down, and then try to use it to pick up a paperclip. At that point, it should be past its Curie Point, which is probably around 840 degrees Fahrenheit.

Now, use the propane torch to heat the magnet until it glows red.

The demonstration should only be done by an adult familiar with the safe use of a propane torch.įirst, take one of the magnets and prove that it is magnetic by using it to pick up a few paperclips. This can be demonstrated easily with a few permanent magnets, some paperclips, and a propane torch. This temperature is known as the magnet's Curie Point. Permanent magnets all have a temperature at which they will lose their magnetism. If you use two dyes of different densities, you should observe that the paper towel eventually separates the colors based on their differing densities. Also, observe what happens when you put more than one type of food dye in the water.

To add some color to the experiment, try putting food dyes in the water. This also works with a very narrow tube in place of a paper towel. Hence, the towel pulls water up, against gravity. This demonstrates capillary action, because the water has less of a cohesive force than that of the adhesive force between the towel and the water.

Eventually, the paper towel will become fully wet. Observe how the water seems to flow up the paper towel, contrary to what one would expect. Lower a rolled-up paper towel into a glass full of water until about two centimeters of the paper towel are in the water. This is an investigatory project example that is fun and safe it demonstrates the capillary effect, also known as capillary action.
