Go to https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulation/circuit-construction-kit-dc and click on Download and then Run. Drag circuit elements from the carousel on the left into the play area. Connect them together by overlaying the dashed circles. Clicking on the connections allows you to cut them. Delete circuit elements by clicking on them and then selecting the trash can. You are encouraged to play freelyin a simulation you can't hurt anything (neither the equipment nor you!).

Activity 5 | Conductors and Insulators (Adapted from PhET Colorado2) If an object has low resistance we call it a conductor and if it has high resistance an insulator. There is a wide range of resistances; many objects are in between the extreme categories. Metals are usually good conductors because they have many electrons that are free to move; that's why wires are usually made of metal. But other things can conduct too.

a. The second and third panels in the carousel have many household items. Determine which are conductors and which are insulators. Were there any surprises? Were all conductors equally conductive? b. Why is the pencil sharpened on both ends?

c. Based on the simulation and further research, are human bodies conductors? Why should you be careful around high voltages?

d. Which of the conductors can you light on fire in the simulation? Why? e. Pay special attention to the fuse. It has a conducting state and an insulating state. Why? What causes it to switch states? (If you "blow" a fuse, just get a new one from the carousel.)

f. Figure out the purpose of fuses in real life by putting one in series with a conductor you managed to light on fire. Explain