Curie Point

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In this activity best suited as a demonstration, learners observe that when a piece of iron gets too hot, it loses its ability to be magnetized. The temperature at which this occurs is known as the Curie Point. This simple set-up involving a lantern battery and Tinkertoys™ demonstrates this phenomenon. Adult supervision required, as the wire will get hot in this activity.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Demonstration
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • A small magnet
  • A stand to hold the magnet pendulum and wire (The stand can be easily made from Tinkertoys™ or pieces of wood.)
  • One 6-volt lantern battery (or other 6-volt power supply)
  • 2 electrical lead wires with alligator clips at both ends
  • One 3-inch (8 cm) length of thin iron wire, obtainable by separating one strand from braided picture-hanging wire
  • String, about 1 foot (30 cm) long
  • Adult help

Keywords

Subjects

  • Physical Sciences
    • Heat and Thermodynamics
      • Heat and Temperature
      • Thermodynamics and Entropy
    • Electricity and Magnetism
      • Electromagnetic Fields
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Elementary Particles and Nuclear Physics
    • Vibration and Waves
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

Funding Sources:

  • National Science Foundation
  • California Department of Education
  • NEC Foundation of America