Spark your curiosity of the wonders of electricity in this interactive exhibit dedicated to the Museum’s namesake—Benjamin Franklin! Just as Franklin engaged in hands-on experimentation with electricity, you will too! Use your body to complete the circuit and discover how series and parallel circuits regulate the flow of electrons along a conductor or "feel" the electricity required to power up different kinds of light bulbs. Insulate yourself from the hair-raising effects of the Van de Graaff generator which demonstrates the effects of a buildup of electrical charges.
Learn how electricity is created and explore the fuel sources needed to generate our electricity. You’ll feel the force of electricity by manipulating electrical phenomena, exploring authentic artifacts (including Franklin’s Lightning Rod), and tackling questions of sustainable energy.
And investors in the Inspire Science Campaign located in The Joy and George Rathmann Hall of Science.
Things to Do and See in Electricity
Insulate Yourself from a Static Charge
This electrifying interactive will make your hair stand on end!
Generate Enough Power to Light a Bulb or Two
Discover how much power it takes to illuminate a light bulb.
Use Your Body to Complete an Electrical Circuit
Can you complete the circuit and light the bulb?
See Benjamin Franklin's Lightning Rod
Invented by Franklin, the lightning rod is the first practical application of electrical knowledge and is still in use today.
Witness Lightning Up Close
Catch the Tesla coil's high voltage discharge on the hour.