5C30.30-Light the Bulb

Video: Watch this demo

Instructor’s video

Description: This demonstrations shows that a large capacitor can light a bulb for several seconds.

Equipment:

• DC Power Supply
• SPDT switch
• 1F capacitor (rated at 5Vmax)
• 14V bulb and 5V bulb
• Wires and alligator clips

Setup Procedure:

1. Connect the equipment according to the desired schematic. One circuit lights the bulb as it charges, while the other does not.
2. Test to make sure everything works correctly. Do not exceed 5VDC across the capacitor.
3. When the professor is done, make sure the capacitor is discharged.

Demonstration Procedure:

1. Move the switch to the charge position and wait for the capacitor to charge (you can use the current on the power supply to tell).
2. Move the switch to the discharge position and note that the capacitor lights the bulb, and the bulb gets dimmer as time goes on.
3. Repeat if desired.

 
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