The second lecture/lab of our geology class: Properties 2, magnetism and conductivity.
We began with a scavenger hunt, looking for materials to test. The list suggested rocks, but it also included some natural materials, including grass, leaves, twigs, and more.
Lessons learned: Metals conduct electricity. Some metals and alloys are attracted to a magnet, but not all. Most other things do not conduct electricity.
Big lesson: A negative result is as worthwhile as a positive result.
Some highlights in photos:
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| Selecting some test specimens. |
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| The magnet and specimens |
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| The test site for conductivity: Switch, C cell, light and clips. The specimen will complete the circuit. |
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| Wax does not conduct. |
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| Data collection is neat and organized. |
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| Do leaves conduct? |
No!
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| But aluminum foil does! |
Next session: Testing rocks and minerals for hardness, streak, etc. By the time we are done, identifying rocks and minerals will be a simple, practical exercise.
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