What's this?

Ferrofluid

Ferrofluid is an oily liquid that contains tiny particles of a magnetic material (magnetite, an oxide of iron). A magnet placed just below a dish containing ferrofluid generates an array of spikes in the fluid. The spikes follow the lines of the magnetic field. The attraction between the magnet and the ferrofluid is strong enough to hold the magnet in place and to prevent the "fluid" from escaping when the dish is tipped. When the magnet is removed the spikes disappear and the fluid may be poured.

What's This? ChemEd DL Collection?

Like many of us, chemists are curious about some of the things they see. However, a chemist is less likely to go off with a shrug. Chemists are likely to want to understand and explain the things they see. This collection of interesting images uses video in an attempt to give you a chemist's explanation of what is occurring.

What's This? Archive

Click an image below to learn about its chemistry.