Home >> Science & Nature >> Science

How to Demagnatize a Magnet

Since the 6th century B.C., people have been attracted to the science of magnets. Some like to believe in the possibility magnets have therapeutic value for reducing joint pain. Others just take relief in the fact magnetism is what keeps the compass needle pointing north. From old-school television sets to high-speed trains, magnets have a welcome place in everyday life. But you have the power to eliminate the attraction --- literally --- by demagnetizing a magnet.

Things You'll Need

Magnets
Hammer

Instructions

- 1
  Heat the magnet until it is red hot. For example, taking an iron or low-carbon steel magnet to a temperature of 1,390 degrees Fahrenheit --- known as its Curie point in physics --- alters the way atoms interact with each other and eliminates magnetic properties.
- 2
  Stroke the magnet repeatedly with another magnet in a random pattern. This reorders the atoms and removes magnetic properties.
- 3
  Strike the magnet repeatedly with a hammer. The force of each blow will begin jarring atoms and eventually take away all of their magnetism.

Science