Material Science/Solid State Chemistry- Ferrofluids

Ferrofluids

Description: Ferrofluids contain tiny particles of magnetic solid suspended in a liquid medium. When a strong magnet is brought close to the ferrofluid, several spikes will appear, as the fluid arranges itself along the magnetic field lines of magnet.

This demonstration is also available on JCE Software “Chemistry Comes Alive!”  Vol. 2 CD-Rom.

Source: Ellis, A. et al.  Teaching General Chemistry: A Material Science Companion

Year: 1993   Vol: N/A   Page: 37

Keywords: Magnetic solids, Spikes, Magnetic fields, Mixed Valence

Rating:

Hazard: Medium

  • Flammable liquids
  • Skin irritation
  • Reproductive toxicity
  • Central nervous system toxicity
  • Aspiration hazard
  • Aquatic toxicity hazard- short and long term

Effectiveness: Good

  • Good connection from demo to course material
  • Results are observable without guidance
  • Counter intuitive effects are noted

Difficulty: Medium

  • Some careful manipulation required
  • Some intermediate steps to results
  • Handling of potentially toxic chemicals
  • Prior practice or training recommended

Safety Precautions:

  • Eye protection required
  • Gloves required
  • Perform in a well-ventilated area
  • Use of chemically resistant surface recommended
  • Care is needed when handling Neodymium magnets

Class: Solid State Chemistry

Division: Solid State Chemistry