Dipping Needle Compass Science Experiments

A dipping needle compass science experiment is a fun kid science experiment. A dipping needle compass science experiment is an easy to do magnet science project that can be enjoyed by kids of any age. Although this dipping needle compass science experiment is a fun science activity for kid, adult supervision is highly recommended when dealing with wires and other materials that require care when handling.

Equipment needed for a dipping needle compass science experiment

In order to perform a dipping needle compass science experiment, you need:

• A wire hanger
• Wire clippers
• A small Styrofoam ball
• Knitting needle
• Compass
• 2 glasses tumblers of the same size
• Protractor
• Wood block
• A strong bar magnet

What to do in a dipping needle compass science experiment?

1. The first step in a dipping needle compass science experiment is to clip a straight piece of wire from the wire hanger with the wire clippers. It is best that this part is done by an adult since wire can be dangerous to handle.
2. Then push the piece of wire through the Styrofoam ball so that equal lengths of wire stick out from opposite sides of the Styrofoam ball.
3. Then stick the knitting needle through the Styrofoam ball at a right angle to the piece of wire hanger as shown in the picture of the dipping needle compass science experiment for kid below.
4. Situate the compass so that the ends of the knitting needle rest on the tumblers and the Styrofoam ball and hanger sits between the tumblers.
5. Swivel the wire hanger into a horizontal position. Using the compass as a guide, turn the tumblers so that the hanger pints north and south.
6. For about one minute, stroke the north end of the hanger with the north pole of the bar magnet. This action magnetizes hanger and turns it into a north seeking compass needle.
7. Attach the protractor, upside down, to the side of the wood block and slide the wood block between the tumblers so that it sits just beside the Styrofoam ball.
8. Allow the compass needle to settle into position and observe its angle.

Dipping needle compass science experiment for kid

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