Biology

Elementary

Microscopes

Physics

Teacher Developed

Clearance

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Produced by the Discovery Channel, Understanding: Electricity explores the power and purposes of electricity, the individuals who use it, the engineers who harness it, and how electricity is generated and delivered to homes. It answers the question what is electricity? and looks at ways electricity is used, including innovative new medical applications such as trying to combine the electricity in our bodies with man-made electrical systems. After viewing this program students will have a better understanding of how an electric current flows when electrons are torn from atoms and move freely, how copper and other materials with loosely held electrons are conductors of electricity, why clay, rubber, and other materials with electrons tightly bound to their atoms are insulators, how at hydroelectric plants, the power of falling water drives the blades of a spinning turbine, which causes a magnet to spin inside a coil of copper wires. The spinning magnet causes the electrons in the coil to move, creating a flow of electricity, and how a simple electromagnet can be made from copper wire, a battery, and a nail. They will be able to discuss electromagnetism, the relationship between utility companies and their customers, the process of a lightning strike and other related topics. 52 minutes. Includes teacher's guide.


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