Increasing Voltage of Potato Battery in Chemistry Class

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on increasing the voltage output of a potato battery in a chemistry class, where participants have achieved a maximum of 15 volts using magnesium and copper electrodes. Suggestions include soaking potatoes in a salt-saturated solution to enhance conductivity. However, attempts to connect multiple potato batteries in series resulted in diminishing returns, with voltage dropping significantly after reaching 15 volts. The conversation emphasizes the importance of material selection and configuration in optimizing battery performance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrochemical cells
  • Knowledge of voltage and current principles
  • Familiarity with materials like magnesium and copper
  • Basic chemistry concepts related to conductivity
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of different electrolyte solutions on potato battery performance
  • Explore the use of alternative electrodes, such as zinc or aluminum
  • Investigate series and parallel configurations of electrochemical cells
  • Learn about the impact of potato variety on voltage output
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, educators conducting experiments with electrochemical cells, and hobbyists interested in renewable energy projects.

stokes173
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hey guys what's up?

just recently I've been working on this potato battery thingy in chemistry class and the highest i can get it is 15 volts. i knwo there are a lot of variables involved but are there any suggestions that you might think would help achieve a higher voltage? i was thinkin of soaking the potatoes in a salt saturated thing of water...(more sodium). any ideas would be greatly appreiciated.

ps- nothing to insane.. we are using magnesium and copper as the 2 metal things.. ie no lithium... and preferably materials that could be bought at the local stores.

thanks!
 
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How about connecting several potato batteries in series ?
 
er

well.. yeah I've done that already (sorry for not mentioning). we had about a 10 pnd bag, cut em up into 4ths and connected em all. the highest we got was 15... then after that it wouldn't go past 3...
 

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