#  >> K-12 >> K-12 Basics

How to Make a Light Bulb Turn on Using Only a Battery and a Strip of Wire

Using a battery and a strip of electrical wire to turn on a light bulb is the basic way that flashlights work, other than their having an on/off switch that breaks or connects the circuit. This on/off switch is simulated in the experiment by removing the wire end from the negative end of the battery to turn the light off. Replacing the wire at the end of the battery turns the light back on.

Things You'll Need

  • Flashlight
  • 14 gauge electrical wire
  • Wire cutters
  • Wire strippers
  • Electrical tape
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Unscrew the end of a flashlight and take out its small light bulb. Also remove one battery from the flash light.

    • 2

      Measure and cut a 6-inch length of 14 gauge plastic coated electrical household wire using a tape measure and wire cutters. Strip off roughly one-half-inch of the plastic coating from each end of the wire using wire strippers.

    • 3

      Bend the wire into a "U" shape. Attach one bare end of the wire to the negative end of the battery, keeping it in place with electrical insulation tape or household tape.

    • 4

      Attach the other bare end of the wire to the metal side of the light bulb, also securing it with tape. Push the end of the light bulb against the positive end of the batter for the light bulb to light up.

Learnify Hub © www.0685.com All Rights Reserved