Re: How do i make magnets?

Magnetism is created when an electrical current flows in a wire.  
Electromagnets are just coils of wire that are hooked to an electric 
supply.  A permanent magnet is a piece of material, usually iron, that has 
become magnetized.  The simplest way to make one is to wrap wire around a 
nail and quickly touch the ends of the wire to a car battery.  This 
produces a direct current flow that magnetizes the nail.  The more turns 
of wire and the higher the battery voltage, the stronger will be the 
magnet.

Most materials can't be magnetized, but some alloys have been found that 
make stronger permanent.  One is called Alnico because it is made from a 
combination of aluminum, nickel and cobalt.  You can buy these magnets, 
but you can't make them.  The process of making the material is too 
complex.

Permanent magnets are not as useful as magnets that can be turned on and 
off.

Temporary magnets are made using alternating current.  The big ones used 
in junk yards to lift cars must be able to release the cars.  Alternating 
current first magnetizes and then demagnetizes.  It does this so quickly 
that the car has no chance to fall as long as the current keeps flowing.  
Once the current is stopped, there is little or no permanent magnetism 
left.  The car is released.  The car is picked up by turning on the 
alternating current and is dropped by turning it off.