Multimeters!!

Recently, we've been dealing a lot with these things called multimeters in physics class.

Well, what is a multimeter, you ask?
A multimeter is an instrument designed to measure electric current, voltage, and resistance.

We have been using multimeters in class to understand currents, voltages, and resistances in schematic circuits drawn on the board with a D battery as the voltage source. We learned that when you use a multimeter, you must measure "voltage across, current through". When measuring voltage, you measure from one side of the resistor (lightbulb, wire, etc.) to the other. When measuring current, you must break the circuit and connect the probes between to measure the flow.

What can you use a multimeter for other than for physics experiments and diffusing bombs?
You can use a multimeter for all sorts of things. Within a circuit in your house, you can use the multimeter to check where the break or shortage. You can save money by getting straight to the problem instead of hiring someone else to do it or throwing the device away! For example, if you have a device that is using an ac/dc converter that stops working, how can you tell if it is the converter or the device? Instead of just buying a new device or converter, you can use a multimeter to understand the root of the problem!
You can also use a multimeter to test if your batteries still have voltage in it. Multimeters are useful for testing ac/dc converters, fuses, lightbulbs, wall switches, wall outlets, and most electronic devices in your household!

Electricity Lab!!

Did you know that Hawaii is ranked #1 in the nation for the highest energy costs? The United States average usage is 11-12 cents per kilowatt-hour, while the island of ‘Oahu’s average is close to triple that, with 33.22 cents per kilowatt-hour. These high electricity costs come because of our dependence on foreign oil and our isolated location.

In ancient Hawaii, Hawaiians were sustainable and efficient. They were not exposed to electricity and could function as one of the most effective and organized groups of ancient people. As Hawaiians, we should continue as our ancestors did by living a sustainable life. Although we rely on electricity for our everyday lives, we can restrict our usage to conserve our limited resources while at the same time saving money.

Through this experiment, we can learn the factors dealing with electricity and how to be less dependent on foreign electricity like our ancestors were. The purpose of this experiment is to understand electricity as a whole to better conserve our limited energy source and even save a little money on the side.

I hypothesize that if my family cuts out specific electricity-consuming appliances, we can save at least $10 on our electricity bill!

There are many variables that we must understand to be successful in this lab. A dependent variable is the output or effect of the experiment. This would be the amount of electricity used or the amount of money saved. An independent variable is the input of the experiment that can be manipulated. These variables may include months or changes in our electricity usage. A control is a factor that is kept constant to minimize the amount of variables. A control for this experiment could be testing the same house or building for the changes in electricity usage.

The basic procedures for my lab are as followed:

1.          Collect electric bill from the previous month.

2.         Go to appliances in the house or building.

-      Assess the amount of electricity each appliance uses and find out which uses the most electricity and which is most frequently used.

3.          Decide to cut the amount of the appliance used by a sufficient amount that will be ideal to lower the monthly bill while also fitting with the family’s lifestyle. (For example: Hang dry all clothes for a month, lower water heater temperature, no AC for a month)

-      Continue for a month.

-      Log down hours and power used for each appliance.

4.         At the end of the month, receive your electric bill and compare the two.

     I have collected data for some time now and will continue until the end of the month! Go Green!