What is the difference between a parallel and series circuit?
A parallel circuit can turn one bulb or other kinds of materials off while the other bulb connected to the same circuit can still be working. A series circuit cannot do that.
Parallel circuit Series circuit
1. Can you make the energy ball work? What do you think makes the ball flash and hum?
Yes, I can make the energy ball work, by touching the metallic parts of the energy ball with both my hands. Electricity is what makes the ball flash and hum.
2. Why do you have to touch both metal contacts to make the ball work?
The fingers act like a conductor that connects the circuit within the energy ball together.
3. Will the ball light up if you connect the contacts with any material?
No, only materials that conduct electricity will work.
4. Which materials will make the energy ball work? Test your hypothesis.
Anything that is a good conductor of electricity will work (e.g. metal)
5. This ball does not work on certain individual - what could cause this to happen?
This would happen if a person touches the metallic parts with interference of insulation materials in between (for example, a person wearing rubber gloves)
6. Can you make the energy ball work with 5-6 individuals in your group? Will it work with the entire class?Yes, it will work as long as the individuals are in contact with each other.
7. What kind of a circuit can you form with one energy ball?
Series circuit
8. Given two balls (combine two groups): can you create a circuit where both balls light up?
Yes, by forming a circle with the energy ball held by different individuals.
9. What do you think will happen if one person lets go of the other person’s hand and why?
I think that if one person lets go of the other person’s hand, both of the energy ball will stop working because the circuit will not be complete.
10. Does it matter who lets go? Try it.
In a parallel circuit, if a person from one side of the circle lets go, the energy ball on that side will stop working while the energy ball on the other side will still work. In a series circuit, it does not matter who lets go, the result is the same.
11. Can you create a circuit where only one ball lights (both balls must be included in the circuit)?
Yes, in a parallel circuit, with one circle connected and the other unconnected.
12. What is the minimum number of people required to complete this?
It takes the minimum of 3 people to complete a parallel circuit.
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