Coil + zinkplate + copperplate + 9V battery = shock

[johann1301h]

So I just connected a zinkplate and a copperplate in series with a battery 9v and a coil(with a an iron core). All the parts are from a set bought for learning about electricity.

Since I was a kid I have many time put the + and the - of a 9V battery on my tongue, and felt the electricity.

So when I did this little experiment I was in shock, both mentally and physically:) Because I really felt it! Through my hands! It was so strong! And I was just holding the plates with each hand. And this just from a 9V battery?

How is this possible? what is going on? Why am I feeling it so strong, even though the voltage is the same 9V? Why does the sink/copper and coil increase the shock?

I also tried pulling out the iron/metal core from the coil, and then I didn't really feel anything, but then slowly pushing it inwards made the shock more intense again! why?

Now the instructions is asking me too make my fingers wet, and I am too scared, kind of... :)

Is this stuff dangerous? This kit is meant for kids from 8 years and up:)

Can someone enlighten me somewhat on this?

Thanks:)

 

[Charles Link]

A coil with an iron core makes an inductor whose voltage can get quite large if you make a sudden change of current, e.g. if you have a current in the circuit, and then suddenly open the circuit. This kind of thing, IMO, is somewhat risky. You should not be using your hands or your tongue as a voltage probe. Even as beginner, proper electrical safety needs to be practiced. Especially with a coil, you can not assume that you will not create hazardous voltage and/or current levels. $\\$ @anorlunda What might your assessment be, of this apparatus? IMO, a resistor in the circuit and an oscilloscope would be useful in probing the voltage, and certainly not wet hands or your tongue.

 

[anorlunda]

At first I thought that a 9V battery was intrinsicly safe because of the low energy. I wasn't considering the coil. But if we add a coil and contacts, we approximate a 12V ignition system for a car, which creates a spark big enough for a spark plug.

In most circumstances, the shock would not injure. But there are always unforeseen circumstances --- someone with a pacemaker, someone who misses his tongue and touches his eye, and so on. So, not safe when a coil is included.

Dangerous topics are not allowed on PF. Touching live wires is categorically a dangerous topic IMO. Sensing voltages with human touch should also be categorically dangerous IMO.Thread closed.