Magnetic Force at a Distance

POLARIZE YARD · SNAPLING

Magnetic Force at a Distance

Magnetic Crane Depot

Learn with Snapling, then use your clues in the adventure. Pause whenever you need time to read or think.

Speech bubbles tell the story. Music and sound effects are optional; use the player’s volume control.

Train more: lesson transcript and free resources

Snapling — Magnetic Force at a Distance Magnetic Crane Depot

Hi!

I'm Snapling.

Welcome to Magnetic Crane Depot!

Will you help me investigate magnetic force at a distance?

The Grumblies have mixed up our clues.

Let's check the evidence!

Magnetic forces can act across a gap.

Their effects generally weaken as distance increases in a simple fixed-magnet comparison.

Can magnetic attraction act without contact?

  • A. Only if connected by a wire
  • B. Yes
  • C. No

The answer is B: Yes

Some nonmagnetic materials between objects still allow noticeable magnetic attraction.

The material and thickness matter, so compare test evidence.

That clue helps us make sense of this place.

Some nonmagnetic materials between objects still allow noticeable magnetic attraction.

The material and thickness matter, so compare test evidence.

Which gap works in the record?

  • A. The smaller gap
  • B. The larger gap
  • C. Both lift every load equally

The answer is A: The smaller gap

Our crane record lifts an iron piece across a small gap

but not a larger gap using the same magnet.

Reducing the gap fits the supplied result;

it does not prove every load can be lifted.

Hmm...

how does that connect to our first clue?

Our crane record lifts an iron piece across a small gap

but not a larger gap using the same magnet.

Reducing the gap fits the supplied result;

it does not prove every load can be lifted.

What should stay the same to test gap size?

  • A. Nothing
  • B. Change the load each time
  • C. Magnet and load

The answer is C: Magnet and load

Our crane record lifts an iron piece across a small gap

but not a larger gap using the same magnet.

Reducing the gap fits the supplied result;

it does not prove every load can be lifted.

Nice investigating!

You've been following the evidence.

Let's bring our clues together before the adventure.

Magnetic forces can act across a gap.

Some nonmagnetic materials between objects still allow noticeable magnetic attraction.

Our crane record lifts an iron piece across a small gap

but not a larger gap using the same magnet.

You're ready to explore Magnetic Crane Depot with me!

Choose TRAIN MORE if you'd like another look at the clues.

Choose START ADVENTURE when you're ready.

I'll be right here!

Or choose BACK TO MAP.

Every stop is open to explore!

Free Magnetic Force at a Distance teacher guide and practice (PDF)

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