How to Demonstrate the Curie Point in Metals

The Curie point is the temperature at which metals lose their magnetic properties. It is named after the famous French scientist, Pierre Curie. The Curie point of nickel is low enough that you can achieve it using a propane torch. You can watch a nickel lose its magnetic properties the moment it reaches 350 degrees Celsius.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Canadian nickel (US nickels will not work)
• Magnet
• Metal tongs
• Oven mitt
• Propane torch
• Matches or lighter
• Oven hot pad

1. Obtain a Canadian nickel. (US nickels will not work for this experiment because they do not contain enough nickel.)

2. Test the magnetic properties of the nickel using the magnet. Observe that the nickel is attracted to the magnet.

3. Use the tongs to pick up the nickel with the magnet attached to it. (Protect the hand holding the tongs by putting on the oven mitt.) Hold just the nickel, not the magnet. Make sure you are holding it over an oven pad or other safe landing place where the hot magnet will be able to safely fall.

4. Start the propane torch and heat the nickel and magnet. Keeping heating them until the nickel gets so hot that the magnet falls off. (The temperature at which this will happen is 350 degrees Celsius.)

5. Allow the nickel and the magnet to cool, then test the nickel again. Once cool, it should regain its magnetic properties.

Tips & Warnings

• Propane torches are dangerous and should only be operated by a responsible adult.
• Make sure no one touches the nickel or the magnet while they are still hot.