Classifcation

• Sometimes scientists classify lead as diamagnetic, which means it actually repels magnets. However, this repulsion is very slight so scientists usually classify it as nonmagnetic, like water or wood.
  
  

Misconceptions

• While lead can block radiation and protect you from X-rays, it cannot block magnetic fields. Placing lead near a magnet does not effect the magnet's magnetism. The two materials simply will not attract each other.
  
  

Considerations

• Magnets made of iron, boron, and/or neodymium are the most powerful today. Alloys of lead and these elements are not magnetic.