Hand Crank Generator

Generate electricity first-hand with this engaging exhibit about energy production and conservation. With the Hand Crank Generator, users rotate a small wheel to power a trio of lightbulbs. Like a wind turbine or hydroelectric dam — but powered by human arms instead of moving air or water — this simple generator produces electricity as the hand crank spins a coil of wire around a magnet. The longer and faster users crank the wheel, the more energy is sent to the lightbulbs. Guests can experiment with a series of levers that switch the bulbs on and off, either individually or all at once.

Ages 5+