Do you think dollar bills are magnetic? Here’s a quick little experiment to do while studying magnets or money!
You’ll need a dollar bill and a magnet.
Fold a dollar bill in half and set it on the table like in the picture above. We ended up taping the bill to the table because it kept falling over.
Next, put your magnet very close to the ink at the top of the bill.
Slowly pull the bill up!
Why was the dollar bill attracted to the magnet? Challenge your kids to figure it out! (Hint: think criminal activity)
The reason this experiment works is because the ink used in printing bills is magnetic! The special ink is one of the measures used to deter counterfeit printing.
Stop by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing website for all sorts of interesting money facts and photos. And, if you live near Ft. Worth, TX or Washington D.C., dont’ miss the opportunity to take an amazing FREE tour of the printing facilities.
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oh wow! I’m so doing this experiment next week during part of our discussions about presidents for President’s Day. Love your science experiments.
Thanks! Great idea to tie it in with President’s Day!
This is SO cool! I had no idea. I can’t wait to see my son’s jaw drop when we try this!! Thanks for sharing!
I never knew it! Thanks for the idea! Pinning it!
I had no idea! I’m sure my kids will love this!
Isn’t it fun to discover something we’ve never known before? How many times have you held a dollar bill in your hand, and the whole time that little bit of magic was in your fingers