Follow the footsteps of Thomas Edison by creating your own lightbulb. According to “Science Guy” Jason Lindsey with Hooked on Science, all you need are a few supplies from around the house. Make sure an adult is present to supervise.

 

SUPPLIES

 Electrical tape

 8 “D” batteries

 0.7 mm pencil lead

 Mason jar

 2 wires with alligator clips attached to each end

 Toilet paper roll

  INSTRUCTIONS

STEP 1: Use the electrical tape to secure all of the “D” batteries together in a series.

STEP 2: Use the electrical tape to secure one end of the alligator clips to the sides of the toilet paper roll.

STEP 3: Place a 0.7 mm piece of pencil lead between the alligator clips at the top of the toilet paper roll.

STEP 4: Place the Mason jar over the toilet paper roll, alligator clips, and pencil lead.

STEP 5: Close the circuit by touching the ends of the alligator clips to the ends of the roll of batteries.

  EXPLANATION

The electrons from the battery flow through the alligator clips and pencil lead, which is actually graphite, creating a closed circuit. The graphite or filament becomes so hot it glows and fills the Mason jar with smoke. Go to hookedonscience.org for more experiments that might get you and your family “Hooked on Science.”