Iron filings facts for kids

Iron filings are tiny rods of iron. They are often used to show the effects of magnetic fields. Since iron is magnetic, the filings become small bar magnets. Each filing attracts other filings, so the filings eventually look like the magnetic field the original magnet has.

Iron filings are made accidentally when working iron. Iron filings’ only uses are to teach magnetic fields, and to be eaten for people who need iron.

Images for kids

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  Iron filings in a glass tube.

See also

In Spanish: Limaduras de hierro para niños