The Floating Paper Clip

Today, we experimented with magnetic force. First, we had to create our own design to make a paper clip float. We were allowed to use the following materials: a plastic cup, a ruler, a piece of tape, a whiteboard, a pencil, a piece of string, a paper clip, and, of course, a magnet. The class had lots of different designs. 

Then, we tested the magnetic force to see how strong it was. We put materials in between the magnet and the floating paper clip to see if it would fall or float.  

Testing to see if we can put a duotang
in between the magnet and the paper clip

Testing to see if we can put thick cardboard
in between the magnet and the paper clip

What I learned from this experiment: 

"I learned that my Science duotang actually didn't stop the paper clip from floating." ~ Finnley

"I learned that magnetic force is very strong." ~ Viljo

"I learned that the magnetic force from just a small magnet is way stronger than you think because I put my whole entire duotang between the magnet and the paper clip and it didn't fall." ~ Fox

"I learned that a paper clip can float with nothing holding it from inside of a cup." ~ DA

"I learned that you could have so many ways to make something float that's magnetic." ~ Nollan

"I learned that when you put my book in between a magnet and a paper clip, it would still float" ~ LD

"I learned how to experiment, how to build the magnet and when I first started it, it feels like it was gonna be hard because there were so many materials to use but when Fox and I tried it, it was so easy because there were so many ways to do it." ~ SS

"It was floating for 3 seconds. When I put the cereal box in the space, then it still floated." ~ Jaivivaan