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Electricity Science Fair Project

Build a Lightning Storm Detector

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Build a Lightning Storm Detector | Science Fair Projects | STEM Projects
Have you ever wanted to make something that can detect lightning storms? With this project, you can! All you need is a few items found around the house and you can build a high voltage motor that acts like a bell.

Hypothesis

The hypothesis is that a high voltage motor can be built with everyday items.

Method & Materials

You will need to remove the pull-tops from two soda cans, tie a thread to one of the pull-tops, tape the other end of the thread to a plastic rod, place the two cans side-by-side, tape one wire to the left can and the other wire to the right can.
You will need two empty soda cans, a plastic rod, 5 inches of sewing thread, aluminum foil, cellophane tape, and two wires.

Results

The experiment showed that a high voltage motor can be built with everyday items. The motor acts like a bell, with a clapper that bangs furiously from one can to the other and back again. The big blue spark that snaps between the cans adds to the frenetic activity.

Why do this project?

This science project is unique because it is so simple to build and it only takes 5 minutes to put together.

Also Consider

Experiment variations to consider include using different materials for the cans, such as metal cans, or using different materials for the plastic rod, such as a wooden dowel.

Full project details

You can find additional information and details for this science fair project here. Have fun exploring!

Related videos

Hey there! Here are some awesome videos about this science project that we think you'll really like. They're not only super fun, but they'll also help you learn more about the science behind the project. So sit back, relax, and get ready to have some fun!!
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