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Hard⏱ time2.5 hr$ cost16

Wave Energy Model

A bobbing float drives a simple generator to capture energy from water waves.

Start building ↓
fig — working model Result first

The build

Step 01

Build the float

Connect a float to a lever arm.

Step 02

Couple a generator

Link the arm to the motor.

Step 03

Make waves

Rock the water to bob the float.

Step 04

Read output

Measure the electricity made.

Working Principle

Passing waves bob the float up and down; that motion turns the generator, converting wave energy into electricity.

The science behind it

A closer look

Wave energy is captured from periodic motion; bigger or faster waves transfer more power to the generator.

Take it further

Variables to test

  • 1 Bigger waves — more output?
  • 2 Compare float sizes for energy capture.
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