If you're looking for a fun and fascinating way to explore magnetism, we’ve got just the thing: a DIY experiment to make a water restructurer using neodymium magnets. 

This experiment focuses on how magnetic fields influence how water flows, clings, and interacts with materials over time.

This is a perfect experiment for curious minds of all ages. It doesn’t require a lab coat or a science degree. Just a few simple supplies, a little setup time, and your favorite rare earth magnets. And remember, children should always be supervised when using magnets.

What Does This Experiment Demonstrate?

In this hands-on activity, you’ll use strong neodymium magnets to influence the flow of water through a simple homemade device. The goal is to observe changes in water behavior, like reduced surface tension or improved flow, after it passes through a magnetic field.

While the science behind magnetic water restructuring is still being explored, this is a great jumping-off point for learning about:

  • Magnetic fields and their interaction with liquids
  • Molecular movement in water
  • How fields can influence flow rate and adhesion

It’s also a fun way to demonstrate how magnets can interact with things other than metal, especially when paired with other experiments involving electricity, fluid dynamics, or physics.

What You'll Need:

  • 4–6 neodymium magnets (small ½” discs work great)
  • A short length of flexible plastic tubing (about 6–12 inches)
  • Tape or zip ties
  • A water container (like a pitcher or bottle)
  • A glass or clear bowl for observation
  • Optional: food coloring for better visibility 

Water Restructurer Step-by-Step Instructions 

  1. Prepare the tubing
    Cut a short length of tubing (a clean piece of aquarium tubing or vinyl hose works well). This will act as the “channel” through which water flows. 
  2. Attach the magnets
    Place your neodymium magnets evenly around the outside of the tubing. You want them to be as close to the water flow as possible without touching it directly. Tape them securely in place, or use zip ties if you prefer a reusable setup. 

For extra fun, try alternating the poles of the magnets (N-S-N-S) around the tube to create a dynamic magnetic field. What would happen if you tried all N or all S?

  1. Pour and observe
     Hold the tube over a clear container or bowl. Slowly pour water through the magnetized tubing. Food coloring can help you see how the water behaves. 

Look for:

  • Smoother or faster flow compared to untreated water 
  • Less clinging to the container or tubing walls 
  • Fewer air bubbles or turbulence in the stream 
  1. Compare with a control
    To make this a true experiment, repeat the process with a second piece of tubing without magnets. Compare the two results: Did the magnetized water flow faster, smoother, or behave differently? 
  2. Ask Questions & Repeat
    Encourage kids (or curious adults) to ask: What happens if I flip the magnets? What if I use more magnets? Does temperature change the result? 

Bonus tip: This makes a great jumping-off point for discussions about water molecules, polarity, and how external forces can influence flow behavior in natural systems.

If you need a visual to help guide you through this project, you can view a video of water restructuring here. 

Whether you’re a homeschooler, science teacher, or just a DIY-loving magnet fan, this water restructurer experiment using neodymium magnets is a low-cost, low-mess way to explore the intersection of magnetism and fluid dynamics.

Ready to try it yourself? Shop small neodymium disc magnets for science experiments. Love hands-on projects? Check out our other science-based DIYs in the blog. 

 

Safety Warning: Children should not be allowed to play with neodymium magnets as they can be dangerous. Small magnets pose a choking hazard and should never be swallowed or inserted into any part of the body.

Magnets can be dangerous. Neodymium magnets, especially, must be handled with care to avoid personal injury and damage to the magnets. Fingers and other body parts can get severely pinched between two attracting magnets. Bones can be broken by larger magnets. Visit our Magnet Safety page to learn more.