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: Material Science
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