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Fiber Optic Lights Used in the Classroom

Fiber optics cables and lines are used to transfer light in a specific direction. The light is transported and focused through a thin glass cylinder, which allows the light to shine through the transparent surface. Use fiber optic lights in your classroom for various projects or experiments.
  1. Art

    • Give art students a different perspective on various objects by threading fiber optic cables into them. Have each student choose an object that inspires their creativity. Insert one fiber optic line into a medical syringe and inject the line into the base of the object so that the light reflects on the various angles and lines in an unusual way. Provide a canvas or piece of sturdy paper to each student and allow them to interpret the object in their own way. Set out various medias, such as oil paints or chalk, for the students to use as desired.

    Light Fountain

    • Replicate how fiber optic light is transported by creating a light fountain with your students. Get an empty, clear water bottle with the label removed. Place a small square of duct tape on the side of the bottle and puncture a hole in the center of the square with a thumbtack. Cover the hole with blue painter's tape before filling the bottle with water. Turn out the lights and turn on a flashlight or laser pointer. Place the bottle of water on the edge of a sink so that the hole points toward the inside cavity. Hold the light source to the side of the bottle and have a student remove the painter's tape. Explain that the light traveling process is similar to the way that fiber optic light is transmitted through cables.

    Light Links

    • Bring out the competitive nature of your students by having them attempt to form a continuous path using fiber optic cables. Have students form groups of four and give each group a bundle of 30-centimeter fiber optic lines. They should then attempt to connect the strands to form one continuous line. The first group to connect their tubes together where a laser beam travels straight through the line is the winner. Reward the group with benefits, such as extra credit or treats.

    Morse Code

    • Use fiber optic light to teach your students how to communicate in Morse code. Gather a modulated laser, light-sensitive equipment, fiber optic light guides, jacks and connectors and recording equipment. Use the recording equipment to capture the sounds of your message in Morse code. Transmit the sound through a fiber optic cable connected to a laser and the receiver. Try moving the guide wire in different positions and use different lengths to see how it affects the travel of sound.

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