Bike Generator High school physics demonstration
Physics is phun!
Goals of the Demonstration
The goal is for students to be able to think about an everyday activity in terms of a physical model that explains it. This demonstration is aimed at showing students how approachable harnessing energy can be. To do this, an apparatus is constructed that converts mechanical energy (pedaling a bicycle) into electrical energy via a belt drive which connects the wheel to an electrical circuit.
Physics is all around us
Solving problems
It's widely accepted that humans are using energy at an alarming rate. This demonstration aims to show students an unconventional energy harnessing method: an electrical generator powered by "human energy". One of the goals of the demonstration is to inspire the participants to think about other creative ways to harness energy in an attempt to help solve our global energy consumption problem. The hope is that students may be inspired to pursue careers in science and engineering, whether it's because they think "science is cool!", "I can make a lot of money off of that idea", or "that idea can help people and/or the environment".
