How Do We Convert Electrical Energy into Mechanical Energy?

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In this activity, learners make an electromagnet motor to demonstrate the most basic method of changing electrical energy into mechanical energy. This experiment relates to Nikola Tesla's work in electrical engineering and his invention of the AC (alternating current) induction motor. To provide learners with background about Tesla, this lesson guide suggests learners watch clips from the film "Tesla: Master of Lightning" and write a report about the challenges Tesla faced as an inventor. Use this activity to help learners explore the Law of Conservation of Energy, motors, and electromagnets.

Preparation Time:: Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:: 45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:: $5 - $10 per group of students
Age Range:: Ages 14 - 18
Resource Types:: Activity, Demonstration, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:: English

Materials List (per group of students)

1-inch iron nail
100' spool small-gauge insulated copper magnet wire (#25)
knife switch
4-inch iron nail
6-volt battery
small iron staples
paper clips or tacks

Keywords

Subjects

Engineering and Technology
- Engineering
  - Electrical Engineering
- Technology
Physical Sciences
- Electricity and Magnetism
  - Electric Charges and Currents
  - Electromagnetic Fields
  - Electric Motors
  - Earth's Magnetic Field
- Energy
The Nature of Science
- The Scientific Process
  - Conducting Investigations
The Nature of Technology
- Technology and Society
  - Technology and History

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

see
touch

Learning styles supported:

Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

National Science Education Standards

This resource is part of:

Tesla for Teachers

Access Rights:

Free access

By:

Hardesty, Jim ; Hardesty, Judy

Rights:

Funding Source:

TESSCO