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Activity (Hands-On)Grades 6 - 8

Light vs. Heat Bulbs

Cartoon drawing of an incandescent light bulb next to a photo of a CFLStudents explore the efficiency of light bulbs

Students measure the light output and temperature (as a measure of heat output) for three types of light bulbs to identify why some light bulbs are more efficient (more light with less energy) than others.

Substituting energy-efficient light bulbs is one way to reduce energy consumption. Lighting needs are still provided, but with less energy use. Engineers are developing many new types of light bulbs. CFLs are becoming commonplace, but we can expect new and improved ones soon.

After this activity, students should be able to:

  • Calculate energy use and analyze how changing their behaviors and appliances impacts the amount of energy they use.
  • Conduct an experiment and make comparisons based on experimental evidence.

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