Class description

This 4 session class combines elements of the MOAH classes in electrostatics and electromagnetism to give a more comprehensive view of the physics of electricity.

Students learn about static electricity, dating back to the days of the Greek scientists and progressing to Michael Faraday's monumental discoveries. We then move on to learn about magnetism and induction, gaining an understanding of magnetic effects and principles. Content includes the history of magnetism and explores modern theories and applications that underlie electric power generation and magnetic material physics. Each student builds and takes home an electroscope (thin metal plates that move apart to detect charge); a Leyden jar (the predecessor of the modern capacitor, which stores charge), and an electro-magnetically charged flashlight (no battery required!)

Instructors: Jim Wall, Wes Anderson

Age range : 10 to 14

Maximum class size : 15 students