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
