While a mechanic was repairing a gadget using a screw driver, the steel screws kept falling down. Suggest a way to solve the problem of the mechanic on the basis of what you have learnt in this chapter.
The mechanic can solve this problem by magnetizing the screwdriver.
By rubbing a magnet along the length of the screwdriver multiple times (30-40 strokes) in the same direction, the screwdriver will become magnetized.
Once magnetized, the screwdriver will attract and hold the steel screws in place, preventing them from falling.
Alternatively, the mechanic can attach a small magnet to the screwdriver or use a magnetic screwdriver.
Since steel screws are made of iron, which is a magnetic material, they will be attracted to the magnetized screwdriver and stay in place during the repair work.
Explanation
Activity 4.4 demonstrates how to magnetize an iron needle: 'Place the iron sewing needle on a wooden table. Then keep any one pole of the magnet at one end of the needle. Move the magnet over the needle along its length... Repeat this process at least 30 to 40 times.' The chapter also states that 'Iron is a magnetic material' and is attracted towards magnets. A magnetized screwdriver will attract and hold steel screws.
Solution Steps
Magnetize the screwdriver by rubbing a magnet along its length 30-40 times in the same direction.
The magnetized screwdriver will attract and hold steel screws in place.
Alternatively, attach a small magnet to the screwdriver or use a magnetic screwdriver.
Steel screws contain iron, a magnetic material, which is attracted to magnets.