Part 5. Generators and motors

This portion of the lab is typically done hands-on, but because we are limited in our choice of hands-on experiments right now, please watch use this URL:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jwu09XrH_al

(also available as an external link on Canvas). The URL takes to another video by James Lincoln, in which he essentially recreates our laboratory experiment, almost exactly.

15) In one or two sentences, define a generator and an electric motor. One of these converts electrical energy to mechanical energy, and the other converts mechanical energy to electrical energy. Which is which? How do you know?

16) Describe what happens to the light bulb if you crank the toy generator (Genecon) with different speeds. Be as specific as possible.

17) Connect two toy generators to each other. Turn the handle on one of the toys and describe what happens to the other. Which is the generator and which is the motor? What is the difference between a generator and a motor?

18) Is energy conserved when the two generators are connected to each other?

19) Explain what happens when the Genecon is used to charge a capacitor. Be as specific as possible.

20) What does James mean when he says "you can feel how hard it is to keep up with the demand of producing electrical power?"

21) What does the acronym "LED" stand for? What is the most important feature of an LED? Hint: you may have to look this one up.