The Hand Crank Generator is a power source that produces electrical current by simply turning a crank. When coupled with a second Hand Crank Generator it can demonstrate electromagnetic induction.

Directions for doing the demo: You can demonstrate electromagnetic induction by wiring two generators together. Turn the crank on one generator and the other crank will turn by itself.

Suggestions for Presentation: You can also use the Hand Crank Generator to demonstrate many facets of electric current. You can demonstrate simple principles of resistivity, capacitance, and simple circuits. To demonstrate resistivity, wire a light bulb in series with different individual objects.  By consistently turning the crank you can show different amounts of resistance by the brightness of the light bulb. To demonstrate capacitance, wire a generator in series with a capacitor and light bulb. Crank the generator to charge the capacitor. Remove the generator from the circuit and let the capacitor discharge through the light bulb. To demonstrate simple circuits, wire the generator in series (or parallel) with a few light bulbs. Then remove the bulbs from the circuit to demonstrate properties of resistance and power as related to the number of resistors (bulbs) in a circuit. For best student viewing, wire the generator with the desired electrical components and place the components on the document camera. Ask for student volunteers to operate the generator and question them about the ease (or difficulty) in turning the generator.

Applications: Faraday's Law; Electric Current