Page 76 - Science Class 6 Times Publication

substances. Similarly, the substances which are not attracted by a
magnet are called non-magnetic substances. For example, copper,
gold, aluminium, paper, rubber, wood, plastics, etc are non-magnetic
substances.

Natural and articial magnet
The magnet which is found in nature is called natural magnet. It
does not have a regular shape and size. It has low attracting power.
Loadstone is an example of natural magnet. It was found by a
shepherd named magnus in the place magnesia of Asia minor about
2500 years ago. The loadstone had a amazing property of attracting
iron pieces. The load stone used to come to rest pointing north-south
directions when suspended with a piece of thread. In fact, the load
stone is made of a compound of iron called magnetite.

Now a days, magnets are found in required shape, size and strength.
These magnets are made by human beings and are called arti cial
magnets. Hence, the man-made magnets which are available in
required shape, size and strength are called articial magnets. Some

common examples of articial magnets are: bar magnet, U-shaped
magnet, horse-shoe shaped magnet, needle shaped magnet, block
magnet, disc-shaped magnet, etc.

Articial magnets can be made from iron, cobalt, nickel, etc.

Sometimes, other metals can also be mixed in the above mentioned
metals. Very powerful magnets can also be made as per the need.

The articial magnets are more useful than the natural magnets due
to the following reasons:
a) They are available in required shape and size.

b) They are available in required strength. An arti cial magnet
can be made weak, strong or very strong.

c) They are light and can be carried easily.

Times' Crucial Science and Environment 72 Book 6