MS-PS3 Energy transfer. A battery stores chemical potential energy. In a complete circuit, the battery pushes charges through the wires. The current carries energy to the bulb. The bulb changes it into light and heat.
MS-PS2-3 Electric current is the flow of electric charge. In metal wires, the moving charges are tiny negative particles called electrons. The electrons are already in the wire. The battery gives them a push.
Closed circuit vs. open circuit. A closed circuit is a full loop with no gaps, so current flows. An open circuit has a gap or an insulator somewhere in the loop, so current stops everywhere, not just at the gap.
A switch is a planned gap. Closing it completes the loop. Opening it breaks the loop.
PS1.A Conductors and insulators. How well a material lets current pass is a property of that material. A conductor lets current flow easily (most metals, and graphite). An insulator blocks current (plastic, glass, rubber, ceramic, dry paper).
Looks can fool you. Shiny or gold-colored does not always mean metal. Test it!
Crosscutting Systems and models. The battery, wires, and bulb work together as a system. This sim is a model. The blue dots show electrons, which are far too small to see in real life.
Short circuit (safety). If wire connects the two battery ends with no bulb in the path, current takes that easy path. The current gets very large. The battery and wire get hot fast. Never do this with real batteries or wall outlets.