Description
Grades 9–12. Students build their own functioning night-light (dark detector) using LEDs, a transistor, a light-dependent resistor (LDR), and resistors in this classic introduction to transistors. Using this kit and free downloadable Carolina Essentials™ activity guide, students can learn:
- How electronic light sensors operate
- How LDRs control current flow, how LEDs demonstrate characteristics of semiconductors, and how both devices rely on the photoelectric effect
- How NPN transistors function, with their 3 elements acting as a solid-state switch
Reference several phenomena during your lessons on electricity using this great piece of tech. Click the Resources tab to view and download the Carolina Essentials™ activity guide, Energy Transformations in a Dark Detector. Kit materials support 1 to 3 students. To further explore circuits, the photoelectric effect, and other related phenomena, see the Determining Planck’s Constant with LEDs: Investigating the Photoelectric Effect and Electronic Light Sensors Kit (item #754030).