As the kinetic mechanical energy of the moving wind moves and rotates the blades of the wind turbine, a generator inside the turbine is also rotated. This causes a coiled wire to rotate around a magnet and creates an electrical current which we measure with a multimeter.
Since energy is neither created nor destroyed, the greater the energy input, the greater the energy output will be. Therefore, the more mechanical energy you start with -- the faster the blades turn -- the more electrical energy will be created by the turbine.
- Museum Hours
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- Daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas
- Museum Location
- Getting Here
More Activities
- Online Activity
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Build an Electric Motor
Magnets and electricity work together to make an electric motor.
- Online Activity
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Make a Comeback Can
Surprise your friends by making a can that rolls back to you when you tell it to!
- Online Activity
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Build a Roller Coaster
Learn about energy as you send a marble through a roller coaster that you design.
More Exhibits
- Exhibit
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Science Storms
Feel the physics and consider the chemistry of natural phenomena like tornados and avalanches.
- Exhibit
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Smart Home: Green + Wired 2012
MSI's green home is open with new decor and innovative ways to live green!