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Lab #35.2   Electric Circuits: An Open & Short Case

Purpose
In this activity, students will explore open circuits and short circuits.

Discussion
Electrical circuits are all around us. (We often appreciate them most when the power goes out.) Most circuits work perfectly well (when power is available). But electrical circuits can fail. Two common modes of circuit failure are open circuits and short circuits. In this activity, we will learn how these circuit failures are similar and how they are different.
We will be using an ammeter to help us with this investigation. An ammeter is a simple device used to measure electric current—the rate at which charge flows through a circuit. Current is measured in amperes (“amps”).
 

Required Equipment

2 D-cell batteries, 5 connecting wires, 2 miniature bulbs (1.5-volt or 2.5-volt flashlight bulbs), 2 miniature bulb sockets, DC ammeter (0–5A)

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Student Worksheet   Teacher Notes

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D Battery (2 pack)     04-2106    
 
 
D size Batteries in a convenient pack of 2.  More Info
           
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Magleads Red 10/pack     P4-3002    
 
 
New magnetic hookup leads! Each color coded wire is terminated on each end with chrome plated magnets. Just attach right to a battery or terminal.  More Info
           
$16.00
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Magleads Black 10/pack     P4-3003    
 
 
New magnetic hookup leads! Each color coded wire is terminated on each end with chrome plated magnets. Just attach right to a battery or terminal.  More Info
           
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Miniature Bulbs (Pack of 10)     P6-1407    
 
 
Mini bulbs ideal for the Series Parallel Bulb Base or other applications requiring a 3.2V, 0.3A screw-base bulb.  More Info
           
$6.00
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Miniature Bulb Base     P6-1401    
 
 
Mini bulb base with screw terminals.  More Info
           
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Dual Ammeter/Voltmeter     P6-8020    
 
 
Analog student meter measures voltage or current! Just slide the terminal cover to convert from volts to amps. Lightweight, portable, and convenient.  More Info
           
$19.00
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