Create a Compass

Equipment: Magnet, Cork or Styrofoam (anything that floats), Needle, Pan or Bowl for Water

With the material provided, design a way to create a compass. Compasses work because the metal in the compass aligns with the magnetic poles of the earth - the needle always points north. See if you can get your needle to point north.

In 5 minutes, your teacher will give you some hints for building a compass. Show your design below.

For the next experiments, you may need to magnetize your needle again.

Experiment 1: What happens if you place two magnetized needles in the same area?

Results:

 

Experiment 2: What happens when you bring a refrigerator magnet near the compass you made?

Results: