Physics · Grades 1–4

Magnetism & induction · Quick reference

Reference sheet for Grades 1 to 4: magnet poles. Test the material, not the colour or size: iron and steel are attracted; wood, plastic, glass, aluminium and copper are not.

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Rule and key idea

What does a magnet attract?

Test the material, not the colour or size: iron and steel are attracted; wood, plastic, glass, aluminium and copper are not.

magnets attract iron and steel

Which object will a magnet pull toward it: a cotton sock or an iron nail? → an iron nail

Magnet poles

Every magnet has a north pole and a south pole. Like poles push apart; opposite poles pull together.

N-N repel · S-S repel · N-S attract

Two magnets are held with their north poles facing each other. What happens? → They push each other away (repel).

Check yourself

Four practice questions on this topic. Try each one before you open the answer.

Which object will a magnet pull toward it: a sheet of paper or a steel paper clip?
- a steel paper clip
- a sheet of paper
Show the answer
a steel paper clip Magnets attract objects that contain iron, such as steel. A steel paper clip contains iron; a sheet of paper does not.
Which object will a magnet pull toward it: an iron bolt or a wooden spoon?
- a wooden spoon
- an iron bolt
Show the answer
an iron bolt Magnets attract objects that contain iron, such as steel. An iron bolt contains iron; a wooden spoon does not.
Which object will a magnet pull toward it: an iron nail or a sheet of paper?
- a sheet of paper
- an iron nail
Show the answer
an iron nail Magnets attract objects that contain iron, such as steel. An iron nail contains iron; a sheet of paper does not.
Which object will a magnet pull toward it: a copper wire or a steel paper clip?
- a steel paper clip
- a copper wire
Show the answer
a steel paper clip Magnets attract objects that contain iron, such as steel. A steel paper clip contains iron; a copper wire does not.