Magnetic Mason jar

Mason jars are typically used in canning to preserve food. Using a Mason jar and a few other materials from around the house you can create a magnetic Mason jar.

Materials

* Mason jar

* String

* Tape

* Paper clip

* Neodymium magnet

Instructions

STEP 1: Tie the string to one of the ends of the paper clip.

STEP 2: Tape the untied end of the string to the inside bottom of the Mason jar. Make sure there is about an inch between the paper clip and the lid of the Mason jar.

STEP 3: Place the neodymium magnet on the inside of the lid.

STEP 4: Screw the lid onto the Mason jar. Turn the Mason jar upside down so the paper clip attracts to the magnet. Place the Mason jar upright and observe.

Explanation

The neodymium magnet is so powerful, the paper clip does not have to touch the magnet, to attract to the magnet. This causes the paper clip to look as if it is floating in the air. Magnets have two poles, a north pole and a south pole. Like poles repel, while unlike poles attract.

Jason Lindsey is a science outreach educator with Hooked on Science. Check out his website hookedonscience.org for webcasts and experiments that might get you hooked on science. Send him your science questions at jlindseyhookedonscience.com.