How to Make an LED

LED's, or light emitting diodes, have many uses. They are used to indicate the power is on in electronic devices. LED's are used in traffic lights as well. LED's require much less energy than traditional light sources and last almost 30 times longer than traditional light sources.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 9 volt Battery
• Small diode
• Crystal of silicon carbide
• Alligator clips
• Needle or push pin
• Wire

1. A diode is an electronic component that allows electricity to flow in one direction. Small diodes are used with lower electric currents, while large diodes are used for higher currents. Take a small diode and connect both ends with wire to your silicon carbide.

2. Use alligator clips to clip your crystal of silicon carbide upright into place.

3. Use the positive charge alligator clip to connect from your 9 volt battery source directly to the crystal of silicon carbide. Make sure the clip is only touching the exposed silicon carbide and not other clips that connect to the diode.

4. Use another alligator clip to connect the push pin. Use the negative charge from your 9 volt battery. Allow the push pin to touch the crystal of silicon carbide.

5. Scrape across the surface of your crystal of silicon carbide with the push pin. Try to find the "sweet" spot where light is emitted from the silicon carbide.

6. Turn out your lights. You have created a light source that will last for up to two weeks depending on how long your battery lasts.

Resources

• Vimeo: LED Construction
• TechXCite: LED Info