If oxygen is attracted to a magnet, is there more oxygen in the air near the north magnetic pole? Explains why the answer to this question (posed by a high school physics student) is "no." (JN)

Presents a simple activity to determine the layout of the magnetic poles in a flat rubber or plastic refrigerator magnet. (JRH)

Discusses common as well as uncommon minerals that are attracted to a hand magnet. Included in the discussion are answers to the following questions: (1) What causes this attraction? and (2) How many different minerals respond to a hand magnet? (ZWH)

Explains magneto-optical effects and describes techniques which may be used, in conjunction with certain materials, to reveal domain structures. In addition, simple experiments are described which enable domains to be observed under various conditions of applied fields. (Author/GA)

Describes an experiment demonstrating Lenz's law by measuring a magnet falling through a copper tube compared to a nonmagnet falling. Presents diagrams and pictures showing the apparatus. (YP)

Describes the use of magnetic field probes interfaced to a microcomputer in measuring the magnetic field in and around a solenoidal "Slinky" spring toy carrying a current of a few amps. (JRH)

Describes how Tinkertoy parts can be use to aid in helping students understand the application of Gauss' Law. (ZWH)

Presents an easy method to demonstrate Third-Law interactions using identical button magnets sliding along a smooth (nonmagnetic) knitting needle. Explains the gravitational and magnetic interactions in the case of horizontal and vertical positions of the needle. (JRH)

Describes a simple, inexpensive system that allows students to have hands-on contact with simple experiments involving forces generated by induced currents. Discusses the use of a dynamic force sensor in making quantitative measurements of the forces generated. (JRH)

Presents detailed teaching plans for activities with "rubberized" magnets as well as background information and alternative teaching-learning approaches. This activity may be used to develop student skills in inferring and in observing evidence of interaction. Includes instructions for equipment construction. (BR)

Shelve the textbooks the next time you conduct a study of magnetism and pull the concepts together with plenty of well-plotted discovery activities. Discusses a number of stimulating scientific experiments utilizing the magnet. (Author/RK)

Basic physical concepts of importance in understanding magnetic fluids (fine ferromagnetic particles suspended in a liquid) are discussed. They include home-made magnetic fluids, stable magnetic fluids, and particle surfactants. (DH)

Describes several ways to partially levitate permanent magnets. Computes field line geometries and oscillation frequencies. Provides several diagrams illustrating the mechanism of the oscillation. (YP)