Building a Wind Generator Tutorial

Julie U from the Exploratorium Teacher Institute demonstrates how to harness wind energy to light an LED using a small hobby motor. The video guides viewers through building a wind generator with simple materials like popsicle sticks and paper cups. The process involves creating a fan assembly, constructing a base, and testing the device. Julie explains the importance of the motor's orientation for the LED to light up and provides troubleshooting tips.

What is the main goal of the video tutorial?

• To demonstrate how to build a solar panel.

• To show how to harness wind energy to light an LED.

• To explain the principles of hydropower.

• To teach how to create a battery-powered motor.

What device is primarily used to generate electricity in this tutorial?

• A solar panel

• A battery

• A hobby motor

• A wind turbine

How is the hobby motor used differently in this tutorial?

• It is connected to a solar panel.

• Its shaft is spun to generate electricity.

• It is used to spin a fan.

• It is powered by a battery.

What materials are needed to create the fan assembly?

• Four popsicle sticks and a small paper cup

• Two popsicle sticks and a large plastic cup

• Two batteries and a small paper cup

• Four popsicle sticks and a large plastic cup

What is the purpose of drilling a small hole in the popsicle stick frame?

• To balance the fan

• To fit the motor shaft

• To attach the LED

• To insert a battery

How are the blades for the fan assembly created?

• By cutting a 3 oz cup lengthwise and into four pieces

• By gluing four popsicle sticks together

• By using a plastic sheet

• By attaching small propellers

What is the function of the larger cup in the wind generator?

• To hold the LED

• To serve as the base

• To generate wind

• To store the motor

Why is it important for the fan assembly to have a snug fit on the motor shaft?

• To ensure the fan spins the motor shaft

• To make it easier to assemble

• To balance the wind generator

• To prevent the motor from overheating

What should you do if the LED does not light up when testing the wind generator?

• Add more blades to the fan

• Replace the LED

• Spin the fan faster

• Reverse the orientation of the LED

Why might the motor spin in different directions?

• Depending on the wind speed

• Based on the size of the cups

• Because of the type of motor used

• Due to the design of the blades