Electric Cell

Electricity to the bulb in a torch is provided by the electric cell. Electric cells are also used in various devices such as alarm clocks, wristwatches, transistor radios, and cameras. An electric cell has a small metal cap on one side and a metal disc on the other side. The metal cap is the positive terminal of the electric cell, and the metal disc is the negative terminal. All electric cells have two terminals: a positive terminal and a negative terminal.

An electric cell produces electricity from the chemicals stored inside it. When these chemicals are used up, the cell stops producing electricity and needs to be replaced.

Structure of a Torch Bulb

A torch bulb has a glass case fixed on a metallic base. Inside the glass case, there is a thin wire called the filament. The filament gives off light when the bulb is switched on. It is fixed to two thicker wires that provide support and connect to the terminals. The base of the bulb and the metal tip at the centre of the base are the two terminals of the bulb. These terminals are arranged in such a way that they do not touch each other. This design is similar to that of electric bulbs used at home.

Connecting a Bulb to an Electric Cell

To light up an electric bulb using an electric cell, it is necessary to create a complete circuit. A complete circuit allows electricity to flow from one terminal of the cell, through the wires, and to the bulb, and then back to the other terminal of the cell.