Part liquid, part magnet, this ferrofluid serves as a symbol of NSF's dual mission–research and education. Precisely ground particles of magnetite in the ferrofluid remain loose and suspended in an oil. When the ferrofluid is placed in a magnetic field, it recalls its magnetic heritage. Here, a drop of ferrofluid rests on a glass sheet placed above a piece of yellow paper. Photographer Felice Frankel then placed seven small magnets under the paper. The attraction between the magnetite and the magnets creates the beautiful flower-like form.

Image by: Felice Frankel ©2000