PIRA 5E40.60 - Cells and Batteries:
Simple battery
Photo Shows the Apparatus Used at the University of Texas at Austin
Instructions / Notes:
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Copper and zinc plates suspended in 10 M H2S04
form a simple battery.
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The sulfuric acid solution used by the demo office is a 10% solution, hence the voltaic cell produces about 1 volt.
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DEMO STAFF: Cu and Zn plates must be sanded clean before each demonstration.
- Only 125 ml of diluted sulfuric acid in an Erenmeyer flask is provided to limit spills.
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The voltmeter needs to rest on a document camera or atop of an overhead projector for class viewing.
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Safety Note: When making an acid solution, #1 wear eye protection and #2 add H2SO4 into the water slowly.
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Safety Note: Adding water into concentrated H2SO4 will cause the acid to explode.
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Safety Note: The acid solution can cause chemical burns and eat holes through clothing.
Last Updated 6/99 - University of Texas at Austin Physics Dept.
- All Rights Reserved.
