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Library Workshop Review: Magnetic Lantern

Updated: Jul 17

At our February workshop, we celebrated Lunar New Year by teaching participants how to make magnetically activated lanterns. This activity demonstrated how magnetism can be used to control an electrical circuit. It was wonderful to see children exploring creativity, electronics, and traditional crafts while learning about the Year of the Horse.


One of our youngest participants (age 5.5) said:

"I loved making the horse light up! It’s so bright and fun!"


Another participant (age 7) shared:

"I really enjoyed decorating my lantern and learning how the touch light works. It was awesome!"


We are very grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make the workshop such a success. We wish all our participants a Happy Lunar New Year and a joyful Year of the Horse!


How Can a Magnet Turn on a Light Without a Visible Switch?


1. Basic Concept

A magnetic touch-activated light is a simple circuit that turns on when a magnet is brought close to a switch.


Inside the switch are two tiny metal contacts. Normally, they are separated, so electricity cannot flow through the circuit. When a magnet comes close, its magnetic field pulls the contacts together, closing the circuit and allowing electricity to flow. This causes the LED light to turn on.


2. Key Components

  • Power source – a CR2032 coin battery that provides electricity.

  • LED light – the component that produces light.

  • Magnetic reed switch – a special switch that closes when a magnet is nearby.

  • Magnetic ring – used to activate the reed switch.

  • Wires – connect all components together to form a complete circuit.


3. How It Works 

  1. No magnet near the reed switch

    • The contacts inside the reed switch are apart.

    • The circuit is open.

    • Electricity cannot flow.

    • The LED remains off.

  2. Magnet approaches the reed switch

    • The magnetic field pulls the metal contacts inside the switch together.

    • The contacts touch, completing the circuit.

    • Electricity flows from the battery coin through the LED.

    • The LED receives electrical current and turns on.

    • Magnet moves away

    • The contacts separate again.

    • The circuit opens.

    • The LED turns off.


4. Real-World Applications

  • Security door sensors

  • Smart cabinets and drawers

  • Magnetic safety switches

  • Touchless lighting systems






 
 
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