E&M D3.2: Current Lab

Lab:  Investigating Current in a Circuit

NOTE: This is an in-class assignment. If you were not in class, you can complete this assignment with the DC Circuit Kit Simulation - go to the link and choose "LAB." 

Objective: You will measure and compare current at different points in both circuits with one bulb and circuits with two bulbs.

Background: Why does a bulb light?  When you put a battery in a circuit, electric current flows through the wires and makes things happen.  The current carries energy from the battery to a bulb or motor.  You can increase the amount of energy in two ways.  The higher the value of the current, the more energy that can be carried.  The higher the voltage, the more energy that can be carried by the same amount of current.

Safety: Be careful when working with batteries.  If they are damaged or broken, return them immediately to your teacher.  If a battery or wire gets hot, disconnect the circuit and ask your teacher for help.  Always have a bulb somewhere in your circuit.  Do NOT connect a wire directly from one terminal of the battery to the other terminal.  This is a short circuit, which can start a fire.

Gather the following materials:  electrical meter and its two test leads, a battery and battery holder, a bulb and bulb holder, and two connectors.  Once you have these, click "take the quiz" to get started.