A battery can supply energy to a bulb when there is a complete conducting loop. The path must go from one battery terminal, through the bulb, and back to the other terminal. An open switch makes a gap. Closing it completes the route, allowing current through the model bulb.
Light, sound and electricity · Discover & try
What does a bulb need to light?
Reading level 1 of 5 · EarlyChange
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circuit
A connected route for electric current.
voltage
A potential difference that can drive current.
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Virtual low-voltage DC loop with a fixed resistive load; never a wiring instruction for mains electricity.
What to look for
- The return path matters
- An open switch stops steady current
- Charge continues through the load
Explain what you noticed
Both wires touch a bulb, but one ends before reaching the second battery terminal. What is needed?
Keep this idea: A conducting route must connect through the load and back to the battery.
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Source material checked 2026-10-28. Explanations and activities by Nepedia. Source links do not imply endorsement.
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