We live in a technology-driven world. The advancement of science has transformed basic science into technologies we use every day. Paradoxically, teaching of science is still dominated by classroom lectures in which the organic connection between science and technology does not come alive.

In this module we will explore the laws of physics not by writing equations on blackboards but by actually tinkering with everyday gadgets. We will take up specific equipment, such as a toaster, an induction cooker, a mobile phone, etc. and look into these to understand the physics of electricity. We may even play with a microwave oven and understand how wave motion takes place within it and use it to determine the speed of light. In summary, we will work with equipment commonly seen around the home and use them to understand diverse and important topics related to electricity, wave motion, and interference of waves.  Just like charity begins at home, so perhaps the understanding of science should begin at home too.

Concepts that will be covered include:

Basic electricity and magnetism - How the heating mechanisms of an induction cooker, toaster, or a microwave oven are all different

Basics of electromagnetic waves

Properties of waves - Standing waves, interference etc.