Exploratory Sept 20th- Penny Batteries

Today-

We will be trying to light a light-emitting diode(LED) with the materials on the table-- pennies, cardboard, salt water, aluminum foil, LED's.

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Turn-Spare-Pocket-Change-into-DIY-Batteries/

(1)Split into groups of 3 by counting off by 1 to 6.

(2) Spend time doing research, create a plan, and write it down, then show it to Mr. Peloquin before you start building.

• http://www.exploratorium.edu/snacks/penny-battery

• https://www.khanacademy.org/partner-content/exploratorium-ddp/exploratorium-chemistry/penny-battery/v/build-your-own-penny-battery-materials-steps

• Half-cell potentials
• http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/chemical/electrode.html#c2

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What do you notice as you go?

• Materials touching
• Voltaic pile that worked- the soaked cardboard was cut off
• You have to sand the pennies thoroughly to expose the zinc--technique matters!

Voltage: A Measure of electrical force

Current: A measure of the flow of electrons

LED's have minimum specifications to work-

• 15- 20 mA
• 2V forward voltage drop
• On an LED, the long wire is positive

Electricity- The Basics https://itp.nyu.edu/physcomp/lessons/electronics/electricity-the-basics/