Lesson 3: Circuits in the Real World

<H1> Essential Questions

 What are the applications of circuits in real life and technologies?
 How are the dynamics of electrical energy present in phenomena like capacitance in
everyday life?

<H1>Big Idea
Electrical circuits are essential parts of our daily lives, even though we do not see them. For example, when you flip
a switch, you close or open a circuit. This allows electricity to flow and power things such as lights or appliances.
Many everyday devices, such as smartphones, contain integrated circuits made up of tiny parts called transistors and
capacitors. These circuits help process data, control touch screens, and manage wireless communication. Capacitors
are important because they stabilize voltage and reduce electrical noise, making devices work more smoothly and
accurately. In a camera flash, a capacitor quickly releases energy to create a bright flash of light. The ability of ca-
pacitors to store and discharge electrical charge is essential in many types of electrical circuits.

<H1> Curiosity Corner

During a thunderstorm, lightning can cause serious damage with its powerful strikes. To protect against this, build-
ings and airplanes are designed with safety features to handle lightning effectively. One common safety feature in
buildings is the lightning rod. These metal rods are placed on rooftops and connected to the ground with copper
wires. When lightning strikes, the rods attract the bolt and safely guide the electrical charge into the earth. This pre-
vents fires, electrical damage, and structural harm. But protection does not stop there! Modern buildings also have
electrical systems that send excess energy away, preventing power surges and keeping your devices safe. Airplanes
face a different challenge because they fly high and are more likely to encounter lightning. Fortunately, planes are
equipped with special protection systems. They use the Faraday cage principle—a conductive structure that redirects
lightning around the plane, away from its internal systems. In addition, static dischargers on the wings release built-
up electrical charge, reducing the risk of a direct lightning strike.. Therefore, whether you are inside a building dur-
ing a storm or flying in the sky, know that engineering is working hard behind the scenes to keep you safe from
lightning!

<H1> Key Vocabulary

 capacitor
 dielectric
 tuner circuit
 electric charge
 electrical noise

<H1> SMART Lesson Objectives

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
 investigate real-world applications of electrical circuits in devices such as radios, computers, and cars
 explain the function and application of capacitance in electrical circuits

<H1>IGNITE: Let Us Bridge Electricity with Life!

Electrical circuits are present almost everywhere, bringing to life most of the objects we use and see around us. For
example, a pacemaker keeps a person’s heartbeat steady by
sending small electrical pulses to the heart, or consider traf-
fic lights—how do they always change in perfect harmony to
keep traffic flow smooth? What about electric cars? Their
circuits are the key to making them eco-friendly by control-
ling power from the battery to the wheels, providing a clean
alternative to gas-powered vehicles. In the world of
medicine, circuits inside MRI machines allow doctors to see
detailed images of the body, helping them diagnose and treat
patients with precision.

Circuits are essential in-home security systems, helping to

detect intruders or fire hazards to keep people safe. Devices
such as motion sensors, smoke detectors, and alarms are
connected to circuits that trigger automatic actions, such as
sounding alarms or sending notifications to phones. For example, MRI machine id: 1811160823
a basic motion sensor works by detecting changes in infrared radi-
ation. When a person moves in front of the sensor, it detects a change in the radiation and sends an electrical signal
to activate the alarm. It is important to design circuits that can tell the difference between real alarms and false ones,
by adjusting for variations in electrical currents and sensor sensitivity.

Consider what kinds of sensors are used to detect threats like smoke, gas, or vibrations, and the physical principles
behind them. What changes could be made to a security system’s circuits to filter out unwanted signals or ensure the
alarm continues to work during a power outage?

<H1> Direct Instruction

Imagine a small village where everyone knows everyone else. Consider a bustling city where people
live in towering apartments and don’t even know their next-door neighbors. Both places are affected
by the number of people living there and their population.

<H1>PATHFINDER: Building a Simple Circuit

Objective: To build a simple circuit that forms a basic shape using LEDs

Materials:

 9 V battery and holder

 LEDs (different colors)
 resistors (220 Ω)
 cardboard
 pencil
 ruler
 copper wires (insulated)
 scissors or wire stripper (to remove wire insulation)

Procedure:

1. Review Ohm’s law and how LEDs and resistors work in a circuit.
2. Draw a simple shape, like a triangle or square, on the cardboard.
3. Build the circuit by connecting the LEDs and resistors in series.
4. Check if the LEDs light up the way you want them to.
 5. Use different LED colors to make the shape look better.
6. Connect the battery and test if you can guess the shape.

How did you apply electrical principles in your circuit? What challenges did you encounter while building the
circuit? What would happen if you did not connect the LEDs in series? What effect would a missing compo-
nent, such as the battery, have on the circuit? How are similar circuits used in real-world technologies?

<H1>LIGHT BULB: Circuits in Devices

We have discussed previously that an electrical circuit is the passage that completes the path for
current to flow. The current requires a proper connection between the source and the device to flow.
The concept of a circuit is pivotal to any device that works on electricity. Let us explore a few
devices from daily life and how an electric circuit enables their efficient function.

<H2> Circuit in Radio

Think of a simple radio similar to the one shown here. Ask your parents
or grandparents how, in the past, they enjoyed music, listened to news
bulletins, and tuned in to entertainment programs on the radio. They often
had to manually adjust the dial to find the right frequency, as shown in the
image. Even a simple radio has an electric circuit supporting its function.
Radios rely on circuits to receive and convert radio waves into sound. In-
side a radio, there are various components such as resistors, capacitors,
and transistors working together. We will explore capacitors in a later sec-
tion of the lesson. A crucial component is the tuner circuit, which selects
a particular frequency from all the radio waves traveling through the air.
Once the desired signal is isolated, it is amplified and sent to a speaker,
where it is transformed into sound. This entire process allows us to listen Radio @TS illustrate it
to music, news, and other broadcasts wirelessly.

Figure 21.6: Electrical circuit of simple FM radio @TS: please recreate this image
<H2> Circuits in Computers
Computers are complex machines made up of many circuits, where the flow of electricity is turned into useful infor-
mation. The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the computer's brain. It processes instructions using millions of tiny
transistors, which are switches that control the flow of electricity. These transistors help perform math and logic
tasks by converting electrical signals into binary code (ones and zeros).

Random-Access Memory (RAM) stores data temporarily. It uses capacitors, which store and release electrical
charge to represent data bits.

Input and output circuits help the computer communicate with devices such as printers or keyboards by turning elec-
trical signals into understandable data. Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) process images by controlling the bright-
ness and color of each pixel on the screen. Devices such as touch screens and monitors rely on circuits to turn elec-
trical signals into visible images, allowing us to interact with digital information.

<H2> Circuits in Cars

Modern cars are equipped with numerous circuits that control everything from engine functions to entertainment
systems. The Engine Control Unit (ECU) is a sophisticated circuit board that monitors and adjusts engine perfor-
mance. It receives data from various sensors, processes this information, and sends signals back. This allows the op-
timization of combustion, which is achieved through the precise regulation of valves, the meticulous calibration of
spark plugs, and the adept management of these components. Additionally, circuits in cars control safety features
such as airbags and anti-lock braking systems, enhancing both performance and safety. Another example is the oper-
ation of vehicle lighting, from headlights to brake lights, which is controlled by circuits that modulate current to ad-
just the brightness and intensity of the light.

<H2> Circuits in Lightning Conductors

A lightning conductor, or lightning rod, is a device that protects
buildings from lightning strikes. It works by providing a safe
path for the lightning’s electrical charge to travel from the
building into the ground, preventing damage to the structure.
The conductor is usually made of a metal, such as copper or
aluminum, and is placed at the top of the building. Its pointed
tip attracts lightning, making it the easiest path for the strike.
When lightning hits, it travels down the conductor, which is
connected to a thick wire that runs down the building. The wire
leads to a grounding system, such as a metal rod or plate buried
in the ground, where the electrical charge is safely sent into the
earth. This keeps the lightning from entering the building and
causing fires, electrical damage, or structural harm. The light-
ning conductor provides a safe path for the lightning’s energy
to go into the ground, protecting both the building and the peo-
ple inside. Figure 21.7: Lightning conductor @TS: Please recreate this

<H1> Progress Check 1

1. Explain how the design and placement of a lightning conductor on a building influence its
effectiveness in protecting the structure when lightning strikes. In your answer, consider
 factors such as materials, height, and grounding systems.

Explanation: The effectiveness of a lightning conductor relies on thoughtful design and

careful placement. It must be made from highly conductive materials like copper or
aluminum to allow electricity to flow safely. Positioned above the tallest part of the
structure, the conductor becomes the most likely point of a lightning strike. Strategic
placement across high points ensures full protection, often requiring multiple rods for
larger buildings. A strong, low-resistance grounding system is essential to channel the
electrical energy safely into the earth. Additionally, the conductor’s path should be
straight and direct to minimize risks. Together, these elements work to shield the building
from serious lightning damage.

<H1> Capacitance
Capacitance is a fundamental concept in electrical circuits, crucial for
storing and managing electrical energy. A capacitor is a device used to
store an electric charge. It consists of two conductive plates separated by
an insulating material, known as a dielectric. It is defined as the ratio of
the charge (Q) on one plate of the capacitor to the voltage (V) across the
plates. The formula for capacitance is:

Q
C=
V
The unit of capacitance is the farad (F).
Capacitors

<H2> Combination of Capacitors:

Capacitors can be combined in two primary ways:

 Series Combination: When capacitors are connected in series, the

total capacitance C total is less than any individual capacitance in the
circuit. The formula is:

1 1 1 1
= + +.......+ In this arrangement, the charge Q on
Ctotal C1 C 2 Cn
each capacitor is the same, but the voltage is divided across them.
Series combination of capacitors
 Parallel Combination: When capacitors are connected in parallel, the total
capacitance C total is the sum of all individual capacitances. The formula is:

C total=C 1+C 2 +...........+ Cn

Here, the voltage across each capacitor is the same, but the charge is divided among
them.

Example: Consider a circuit with two capacitors, C 1=2 F and C 1=3 F , connected
in series.
 1 1 1 3+2 5
= + = =
Ctotal 2 3 6 6

C total=1.2 F If the same capacitors are connected in parallell : CParallel

total =2+3=5 F
combination of capacitors @ TS illustrates
it and replace middle one C 1 with C 2 in the image
Capacitors play a crucial role in various electrical devices. As explained before, capacitors in cameras store energy
and release it quickly to power the flash, providing bright, instantaneous light. In power supplies, capacitors smooth
out fluctuations in voltage, ensuring a steady output. Variable capacitors in radios allow users to select different
frequencies, tuning into specific stations. Capacitors assist in energy recovery and storage, improving efficiency and
performance.
Understanding capacitance and its applications is essential for comprehending how energy is managed in circuits.
This knowledge is vital for designing and optimizing the electronic devices we use every day.

<H1> Progress Check 2

1. Consider a household fan that uses a capacitor to help start the motor. Explain how the capacitance of the
capacitor affects the fan's startup time and efficiency. What might happen if a capacitor with an extremely low
or extremely high capacitance is used?

Explanation: In a household fan, the capacitor plays a crucial role in helping the motor start by creating a
phase shift that generates the necessary torque. If the capacitor’s value is too low, the fan may struggle to
start or run inefficiently. On the other hand, a capacitor with too high a value can place unnecessary stress
on the motor, leading to overheating or reduced lifespan. Choosing the right capacitance ensures a smooth,
efficient startup and protects the motor from wear. It also supports better power factor and overall energy
efficiency, making the fan more reliable and durable in daily use.

2. Describe how you would incorporate capacitors into a circuit for operating a flashlight and ensure that they
can store energy efficiently and deliver powerful, sustained light. Discuss the types of capacitors you might
use and how you would configure them to achieve these goals.

Explanation: To make a flashlight work better, capacitors can be added to store energy and release it
quickly when needed. Supercapacitors are useful because they store a lot of energy and keep the flashlight
shining longer. Smaller capacitors, like electrolytic and ceramic ones, help keep the light steady without
flickering. By connecting capacitors in parallel, we can store even more energy. A small electronic circuit
called a boost converter can also help keep the light bright even as the capacitor’s energy runs low.
Choosing the right capacitors and connecting them properly makes the flashlight brighter, longer-lasting,
and more reliable.

<H1>POWER UP: Home Audio System Design

A key part of a good home audio system is the crossover network, which uses capacitors to direct audio signals to
the right speakers. This helps ensure that low, middle, and high frequencies go to the correct speakers—subwoofers,
mid-range speakers, and tweeters—improving the sound quality.

Capacitors control the flow of electricity. They store electrical charge and release it to help control voltage changes,
reducing noise in the sound. For example, a 1µF capacitor filters out unwanted high-frequency sounds, like a hiss in
vocals, making high sounds clearer. On the other hand, a 1000 µF capacitor provides extra power during low-fre-
quency sounds, like the deep thump of a drum, preventing power drops and bass distortion.
In this design, you have three capacitors: C 1, C 2, and C 3. These capacitors are connected in a combination of series
and parallel configurations to achieve the desired filtering effect for the audio signals.

Capacitor Configuration: C 1 (10 µF) is connected in parallel with C 2 (5 µF) to handle mid-range frequencies. The
combination of C 1 and C 2 is then connected in series with C 3 (2 µF) to manage the transition between mid-range
and high frequencies.

1. Which of the three capacitors will help filter the bass, treble, and middle components of the sound signal?
2. What is the equivalent capacitance of the capacitors C 1 and C 2 when connected in parallel?
3. Explain why the capacitance increases when capacitors are connected in parallel.
4. The equivalent capacitance of C 1 and C 2 from the previous question is connected in series with C 3. What is
the total equivalent capacitance of the entire configuration?
5. Discuss why the total capacitance decreases when capacitors are connected in series.
6. Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of increasing or decreasing the capacitance in your design.

<H1>CRITICAL THINKING
1. You are working on the dashboard of an electric car, and your job is to ensure the display runs smoothly with-
out flickering. How would the choice between a large and small capacitor affect performance? What factors
would help you select the right one?
2. A local radio station works fine in clear weather, but listeners complain about poor reception during storms.
As a technician, what part of the radio circuit would you inspect first, and why might capacitors play a role in
the solution?
3. A motion-sensor alarm sometimes goes off when bright sunlight hits it, even though no one is there. How
might you adjust the circuit, using what you know about current and capacitors, to reduce false alarms without
missing real ones?

<H1>Lesson Check
1. The ___________ is a device used to store electrical energy in an electric field and is commonly used in
electronic circuits to provide power stability and energy storage.
Answer: Capacitor
Explanation: A capacitor is designed to store electrical energy within an electric field. It plays a key
role in electronic circuits by ensuring power stability and supporting energy storage for efficient operation.

2. In a series circuit, when more bulbs are added, the total resistance increases, which causes the current to
___________ and results in each bulb appearing dimmer than in a single bulb circuit.
Answer: decrease
Explanation:
In a series circuit, adding more bulbs raises the total resistance. As a result, the current flowing through the
circuit decreases, causing each bulb to shine less brightly compared to a single-bulb setup.

3. What is the primary function of a capacitor in an electronic circuit?

A. to increase the voltage
B. to store and release electrical energy
C. to decrease the resistance
D. to convert AC to DC
Answer: B
 Explanation:
The primary role of a capacitor is to store electrical energy when available and release it when needed,
helping to manage and stabilize power within electronic circuits.

4. When capacitors are connected in parallel, the total capacitance is:

A. equal to the smallest capacitance
B. equal to the largest capacitance
C. the sum of all capacitances
D. the product of all capacitances
Answer: C

Explanation:
When capacitors are connected in parallel, their capacitances add up. This configuration allows for greater
total energy storage and better support for circuit performance.

5. Which component in a car monitor and adjusts engine performance by processing data from various sensors?
A. Airbag System
B. Fuel Injector
C. Engine Control Unit (ECU)
D. Alternator
Answer: C

Explanation:
The Engine Control Unit (ECU) functions as the car’s central processing system, gathering data from vari-
ous sensors to optimize engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions.

6. In a radio, the tuner circuit is responsible for:

A. amplifying sound
B. selecting a specific frequency
C. storing electrical charge
D. powering the speaker
Answer: B

Explanation:
The tuner circuit in a radio allows the user to select a specific frequency from the many broadcast signals
available. It isolates and processes only the desired radio station frequency for listening.

7. Find the equivalent capacitance in the given circuit:

8. A capacitor is charged to 12 μC when connected to a voltage of 6 V.

a. Calculate the capacitance of the capacitor.

b. If the voltage is doubled, what will the new charge on the capacitor be?
Explanation:
Given,
Charge of a capacitor, Q=12 μ C
Voltage, V =6 V
a. Q=C ×V Using the relation for calculating capacitance
Q Substituting values, we get
C=
V
−6
12× 10 C −6
C= =2 ×10 C /V =2 μ F
6V
b. 2×6=12 V If the voltage is doubled, the new voltage becomes:
' ' ' Using the same relation for calculating capacitance
Q =C ×V
' ' Substituting values, we get
Q =2 μ F ×12 V =24 μ F