IRL Circuits

I have had a really bad left knee, apparently caused by "lumping muscle fibers", which in turn is caused by lack of stretching. I find that rather odd, as even with that lack of stretching i was flexible. Like I-can-do-splits flexible.

Anyway, that killed my motives. But after fixing the diagnosed problem with some hot water and 15 minutes of stretching, i feel better than ever and I am back to teach you s'more boring sciency stuff.

Speaking of which; a few days ago I had the opportunity to try and make some circuits with a team of friends. I specifically, with the help and partnership of the pleasant Nanda (you can find her here) and some advice from my old friend Su- I mean Enclair focused on the making of a working model of a parallel circuit, in which we did it wonderfully.

And I also got to read some poems by Falin, in exchange for some wiring. They're not the best, gotta be honest, but they were refreshing. Being able to see love from the eyes (or words) of a girl is a nice change. But honestly, i should've traded for some hot coffee instead. The weather has been nothing but miserable lately.


SO-
Since I am a kind and benevolent person, I will un-reluctantly share the directions that you can do to make your own IRL Circuit!

You will need;

1. 1-2 meters of electrical wiring (make sure it's marked under 600v)
2. Batteries
3. Small Light Bulbs - Alternatives are small DC Motors and the such
4. Alligator Clips (if need be)
5. An electric switch

Steps that you will take:

1.  Make sure everything is wired up
2. Flick the switch on

Haha. Yeah, i know. That wasn't very informative. But the thing is, making these things can use some creativity, improvisation, and a lot of trial and error. So it'll be more fun to try it our yourselves!

But here's a basic diagram you can follow.

And here are some tips you can follow:

• Make sure the output of your battery/ies don't exceed 150% of the resistance inside the circuit. Whatever you're using, be it a bulb or a motor, will fry to death off of electron overdose.
• The opposite also applies. If the resistance is higher than the electric current, the thing won't turn on.
• You can save space for batteries by using higher output ones, or by using battery holders.
• Alligator clips will give you an easier time. Once you manage to get them on.
• Keep a lighter (or another source of fire) close by. You need to expose the copper fibers within the cable to be able to do anything with them; and the only way to do that is to burn off the insulation. Heat one point, then pull it off.

And if you can make it functional, AND look good (like what is done here by Dara) then i'll take my hat off for you and scream kudos.

Consult your local physics teacher for details.