will magnets work through glass

In short, the answer is yes, magnets will work through glass depending on the thickness of the glass. The strength of the magnet and the distance between the magnet and the glass will also impact its performance through the glass.

One important concept to consider is the eddy currents present in metals and conductive materials, including glass. These are currents that circulate within the material when exposed to magnetic fields. The current generates its magnetic field that opposes the original magnetic field, which ultimately absorbs some of the original magnetic energy. The thicker the glass, the greater the resistance and the more significant the attenuation.

However, for thin glass materials, magnets can work effectively and show little attenuation, achieving an electromagnetic effect at distances up to several centimeters away from the glass surface. In contrast, thicker glass may hinder magnetic force transmission, resulting in a weaker magnetic field and reduced magnetic power.

In addition, the type of magnet used also plays a crucial role in determining its effectiveness through glass. Permanent magnets, such as neodymium magnets, are ideal for glass-related applications due to their strong residual magnetic field. These magnets can hold on to thin glass surfaces, display cases, and refrigerators, among other applications.