Can u rust a magnet using vinegar and salt water in a reasonable time?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on a science experiment aimed at determining whether a magnet loses strength when it rusts. The experiment involves measuring how many paper clips a non-rusted magnet can pick up compared to a rusted one. Participants suggest that while vinegar's effectiveness in rusting is uncertain, salt water is known to corrode metal quickly. A recommended method to expedite rusting includes immersing the magnet in salt water and allowing it to dry in the air multiple times to enhance oxygen exposure. Additionally, it is noted that ferromagnetic materials, like iron oxide, are used in some applications, indicating that rust may not significantly impact magnetism.
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I have designed a science experiment for my project in which i see whether a magnet gets weaker when it rusts. So, i take a magnet that is not rusted and see how many paper clips it can pick it up. Then, i rust it and see how many paperclips it can pick up after that. I need to finish this project really soon and i need to know if vinegar and salt water can rust it in a reasonable time? Help!
 
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I'm not sure about the vinegar, but salt water alone is pretty rude to metal. I suspect that your fastest method would be to immerse it, then leave it out in the air to dry. Do that a few times, to maximize the contact with oxygen.
Do keep in mind that ferromagnetic materials such as recording tape are made from iron oxide (rust), so I don't think that rusting has much negative effect on magnetism.
 
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