Power to the People: The Shocking Power of Electrochemical Cells
O'Brien and Stramsak's investigation tried to determine the maximum voltage that could be obtained from a zinc-copper electrochemical cell. The zinc and copper electrodes were placed into zinc sulfate and copper sulfate solutions in different beakers, and a salt bridge filled with sodium nitrate was placed in both beakers. A voltmeter was then attached and the maximum voltage was recorded. The maximum voltage attained was 1.1 volts. This investigation shows that electrochemical cells can become feasible sources of electrical power. More research needs to be done in order to make the batteries less bulky, and to increase their electrical production.
Research Done By:
Kenneth O'Brien
Warren Mott
Steven Stramsak
Cousino
Warren Consolidated Schools