Activity 1.1.1 Simple Machine Investigation –VEX
For this activity your team of four will construct simple machines using VEX components. After you have constructed the simple machines, you will gather data to calculate mechanical advantage. It is important to be as accurate as possible in your measurements and documentation. Terms to know to complete this activity:The Effort (FE) is the force that you apply to the system.The Resistance (FR) is the force or load that you are manipulating.
1.2.1 Energy Sources
In this activity your team of two to three will choose an energy source that interests you. Your team will create two presentation slides about your energy source. Those will be compiled with the other teams’ slides to create a class presentation. Each team will have three to four minutes for their portion of the presentation.
Conclusion
1. Describe one thing that surprised you about the energy source that you researched and presented.
1. Describe one thing that surprised you about the energy source that you researched and presented.
- I had no idea that so many places around the world were using solar heating and cooling systems.
- I like the idea of the smaller wind turbines. It's more efficient and can be placed in urban areas which is exciting because those are the areas that need more clean energy.
- I think finding new ways to extract cleaner energy is something we really need to look into. The sun is an amazing energy source as well as water and wind. These are inexhaustible energy sources that can help put a stop to global warming with these things.
Activity 1.2.5 Mechanical System Efficiency (SIM)
In this activity you will investigate an energy conversion system designed to change electrical energy into mechanical energy. Given ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) winch data, you will determine the efficiency of the system under various loads. Remember units and precision when recording data.
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Activity 1.3.1 Solar Hydrogen System (VEX)
In this activity your team will power a small vehicle using different types of powersources: a solar panel, a fuel cell, and a battery. You will use the electricity from the solar module to separate hydrogen from oxygen, harness the hydrogen, and then use the hydrogen as fuel.
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