Q&A for How to Make a Magnet

A magnet can be either natural or manmade. In nature, magnetite (also known as lodestone) is a strong, permanent natural form of magnet that was used for centuries in compasses and other objects as a magnet. Other natural magnets are weak (pyrrhotite, ferrite, and columbite), so aren’t of much use as a magnet. Manmade magnets are far more commonplace in everyday use today and come in either temporary or permanent forms.

You can magnetize metal with another magnet, by striking it, with a battery or by using special tools. For more help in a detailed way, see How to Magnetize Metal . If you’re using steel, each of these methods is explained in detail here: How to Magnetize Steel .

Magnets can be found in nature (magnetite, also known as lodestone) but most are made by humans.

Permanent magnets are made from ferromagnetic materials (cobalt, nickel, iron, neodymium, etc.) To make these materials magnetic, they are subjected to a magnetic field by using an electric current. This process lines up the electrons (polarization) and they become magnetic. They are called permanent because they don’t lose their magnetic ability after this process, unless subjected to high levels of heat or hammering. This is a very brief explanation, it may be helpful to search for scientific diagrams that show the process visually.

It is possible to make a magnet stronger. One thing to try: Place the weak magnet flat on a horizontal surface; with a stronger magnet, rub or strike the weak magnet in the direction of opposite polarities to try rearranging the electrons in the weak magnet. Then pop the two magnets in the freezer, stuck together and leave for a few hours, to slow down the electrons. Test the strength after the freeze and you may find it’s stronger. Another thing to try: Leave the weak and strong magnets together for several days, opposite poles facing. Hammering and heat can weaken a magnet, so avoid these.

The magnetic part of a magnet is actually a common mineral called "magnetite".

The magnetic field may end up a bit less uniform while there's a charge running through it, but it should still work.

The needle can be magnetized to face either north or south. Try magnetizing it facing the other direction next time.

It will not matter, but the problem is probably that your nail is not steel or iron.

Yes, as long as it's made of steel rather than aluminum.

Yes. You can also use more or fewer coils.

Make sure you're using iron or nickle, and also make sure your battery works. Test the battery on something else.

You can use any object that can be magnetized, so no, you don't have to use a paperclip.

it is most likely permanent because in the compass, the needle is tiny and yet works so the same thing is happening with your magnet.