Hand Generator

Abstract

Hand generator
Hand generator

Use a hand cranked generator to light a small light bulb.

Portable

Yes

Principles Illustrated

Generation of electricity by moving a magnet near coils.

NCEA & Science Curriculum

PHYS 2.6, PHYS 3.6

Instructions

An older commercial apparatus.
An older commercial apparatus.

Spin the crank pretty fast to light the bulb. This one is designed to illustrate operation rather than produce electricity efficiently.

Making a generator:
One can make a hand-cranked generator using an old battery-powered drill. We have made a handle in our shop. If someone can come up with a simple and inexpensive way to make a handle, please let us know.

Safety

If you make your own generator or purchase one make SURE that it cannot generator dangerous voltages.

Individual teachers are responsible for safety in their own classes. Even familiar demonstrations should be practised and safety-checked by individual teachers before they are used in a classroom.

Related Resources

  • Wind generator
  • Hydroelectric generator
  • Thermal generator
  • Bicycle generator

Teaching Resources

Would you like to contribute lesson suggestions? Contact us.

References

PIRA 5K40.80

Credits

This teaching resource was developed with support from

The MacDiarmid Institute
Faculty of Science, Victoria University of Wellington
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington

Copyright

Copyright and fair use statement