Nikola Tesla vs Thomas Edison - American
Genius
Spotlight On Innovations: Edison and Tesla
Video Link[Nikola Tesla vs Thomas Edison - American Genius]
As you read the passage about innovation, answer the questions below. After the
reading, discuss your answers with your teammates and change them as needed.
1. What innovation is described in this reading? Who are the innovators?
Thomas Edison invents direct current (DC), which flows in one direction and was limited
by its inability to travel long distances efficiently. On the other hand, Nikola Tesla
developed alternating current (AC), where electricity periodically reverses direction.
.
2. Compare and contrast the innovators’ different approaches to creating this innovation.
For DC it flows consistently in one direction with constant voltage. For AC it periodically
changes direction. For example, 60Hz means 60 times per second.
3. How successful would you say each was?
AC Applications Power grid distribution, Large appliances (refrigerators, air conditioners)
and industrial equipment. DC Applications electronic devices (phones, laptops), electric
vehicles, solar panels and LED lighting.
3. Innovations can affect the world in many different ways. Describe the two areas of
society that you think are most impacted by this particular innovation. For example, does
it affect the economy, how we communicate, our travel, work, or daily life?
Factories could now use electric-powered machines and tools instead of old steam
engines, helping workers make things faster and better. New companies started up to
make and sell electrical equipment, creating lots of new jobs. For the first time, factories
could run day and night because electric lights meant people could work after dark. Big
factories could be built near power sources (like Niagara Falls) to make products that
need lots of electricity, like aluminum. Companies could grow much bigger because
electricity lets them run multiple locations and keep everything connected.
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