THE VOLTAIC PILE

Introduction: The invention (by Alessandro Volta) of Voltas Pile in 1800 spurred intense research in the field of electricity. About a century later, this research culminated in electric lights, the telephone and radio receivers in millions of homes. Today, electricity is an important part in every moment of our lives. Aim: To demonstrate that electricity can be generated by chemical activity To recreate Voltas experiment

Materials: t Six strips or discs of copper t Six strips or discs of zinc t Filter paper t Voltmeter t Two cables with alligator clips t One of the following electrolytes: o Lemon juice o Vinegar o A solution of sodium chloride (salt water) o Copper sulfate solution

What to do: 1. Place each zinc disc on a copper disc. You should have six sets of Cu-Zn disc pairs. 2. As shown in fig. 11, build a stack or "pile" of these pairs of discs, with a disc of electrolyte soaked filter paper separating each pair from its neighbors. Be careful that the solution does not dribble down the side of the stack as this can cause a short circuit between the elements of the pile. Note that the sequence of the elements is as follows: Cu, Zn, electrolyte, Cu, Zn, electrolyte, etc. When the device is all arranged as specified, measure the voltage between the bottom element of Cu and the top element of Zn. 3. Start with two sets, then gradually add sets (measuring the voltage produced each time) until you have all six sets stacked up. 4. Clean your strips with water and repeat the process, using a different electrolyte Results: Electrolyte used Number of Stacks 2 3 __________________ 4 5 6 2 3 __________________ 4 5 6 Voltage produced (V)

Graph your results use a different colour for each electrolyte (dont forget to label axes and include units.)

Discussion: 1. What was the maximum voltage you achieved? 2. What does your graph indicate about the relationship between the number of metal sets and the voltage produced? 3. Did it make a difference which electrolyte was used? 4. What was the purpose of the electrolyte (you may need to do some research here!)?