How to Remove Iron Filings From Magnets

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How to Remagnetize a Compass Needle
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Updated April 24, 2017
By Susan McGrath

Iron filings and bar magnets work together to make an amazing demonstration of magnetic fields. When they are separated by a piece of paper or a sheet of Plexiglas, the filings align with the magnetic field of the bar magnet in a dramatic way. However, if you are not careful, you can easily end up with a bar magnet covered with iron filings.

    Pinch off as many of the filings as possible with your fingers.

    Press a sticky substance, such as wax or adhesive tape, against the iron filings.

    Remove the sticky substance from the magnet.

    Repeat using a clean spot on the sticky substance until all iron filings are removed.

    Warnings

    • If you use warm wax, be careful with the wax while it is hot.

References

About the Author

Susan McGrath has been writing since 2004, mostly creative nonfiction. She is a regular contributor of science-related articles to various websites. McGrath has a Bachelor of Science in wildlife biology and a Master of Science in cell and molecular biology, both from Colorado State University.

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