Student Resource Sheet EM - 6
ROUND AND ROUND WE GO!
Electric lights, refrigerators, TVs, and stereos need a steady source of electric energy that can be controlled. This source of electric energy comes from an electric current. In order for the electricity to flow continuously, it must flow in a closed loop. This electrical closed loop is called a circuit. In this investigation you will construct an electrical circuit to examine how energy is transferred.
Objective
When you have completed this activity, you should be able to build a simple circuit in order to describe how energy is transferred to produce light.
Materials
D cell battery
wire, 2
flashlight bulb
Activity 1
1. Read the procedures, “Creating a Simple Circuit.”
Creating a Simple Circuit
A. Examine the materials list.
B. Brainstorm with your group how to set up the materials to light the bulb.
C. Construct a diagram of your group’s set-up.
D. Test your idea.
E. Repeat steps B to D if the bulb does not light up.
2. Reread the procedures and highlight the action words.
3. Follow the procedures to complete the investigation.
4. Draw a labeled diagram of your successful set-up in the space below.
5. Sketch the circuit your group created using the symbols in Figure 1, “Circuit Symbols.”
Cell Wire Appliance Lamp
Figure 1
Circuit Symbols
Analysis
1. Describe what caused the bulb to light. Use information from the investigation and prior knowledge to support your answer.
2. Explain why it is necessary to have a closed circuit. Use information from the investigation and prior knowledge to support your answer.
3. Describe one type of energy conversion taking place in the circuit. Use information from the investigation and prior knowledge to support your answer.
4. Explain how energy is being transferred in the circuit. Use information from the investigation and prior knowledge to support your answer. (Describe the energy path.)
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