Science students will determine whether fluorescent lights interfere with the efficiency of home automation systems in a lab that must be performed at home. Test the theory that fluorescent bulbs produce line noise that leads to problems in various home automation systems: Replace all incandescent lights that run on the same circuits as home automation components, such as thermostats and media centers, with dimmable compact fluorescent bulbs. Turn the lights up to full strength and slowly dim. Repeat the experiment several times, varying the amount of time lights are on and at different light output levels. Record data and continue to monitor the systems for four weeks to determine whether fluorescent illumination causes frequency interference with other household systems.
Many light-producing elements on the periodic table have similar characteristics and can work together. Test whether other light sources can be stored and emitted from a fluorescent bulb during a chemistry lab. Purchase fluorescent bulbs and fluorescent ballasts from a home improvement store. Teachers will need to supply argon and neon electrodes. Remove the mounts of two fluorescent bulbs. Cut off the electrodes with a hot wire tube cutter. Insert 4 mmHg of argon electrodes into the first bulb. It should give off a magenta glow. Attach neon electrodes to both tube ends of the second bulb. Connect electrodes to the ballasts with connecting wires. Allow bulbs to run continuously for several days to observe heat emission and potential short-circuiting before determining whether argon and neon are interchangeable with fluorescent electrodes in fluorescent bulbs.
Students at home or in a classroom need a battery-operated portable UV light to conduct an experiment suitable for most age levels. Block all light sources except the UV light and explore rooms to identify fluorescent-emitting liquids or gels. If none are found, conduct research to identify common fluorescent liquids available for purchase at grocery stores or hardware vendors, such as vitamin B-12 tablets dissolved in vinegar and antifreeze. Gather at least three liquids or gels and create an invisible message by dipping a toothpick in the liquid and writing on paper the same color as the liquid. Exchanges pages with a partner and use the UV light to read the now visible notes.
Elementary students are amazed at their ability to become a human socket and illuminate a fluorescent bulb. Give children inflated balloons and instruct them to rub the balloons against their hair vigorously. Give each child one fluorescent bulb. Have each child hold the balloon close to the bulb without touching it. The bulb should light up near the balloon. Inform children to move the balloon from one end of the bulb to the other and see if the light will follow the balloon. Conclude the experiment by asking students to touch the balloon to the bulb. Observe the results and discuss.