You can do this experiment at home with MEL Chemistry:
https://melscience.com/en/experiments/zinc-carbon-battery/
Reaction:
Zn – 2e− → Zn2+
MnO2 + 2e− + 4NH4Cl → Mn+2 + 4NH3 + 2H2O + 4Cl−
Step-by-step instructions
Empty the graphite bottle into the vial (1g). Graphite is supplied in form of fine powder.
Add all the manganese dioxide MnO2 (1g) into the vial with graphite.
Seal the vial and shake it vigorously as shown to mix the contents.
Soil one end of the plastic tube in the mixture prepared.
Close the tube with a cap, as shown.
Insert the graphite lead (2 cm long) into a hole in the cap.
Prepare a convenient battery holder: place the green cap (without protective film) into a transparent cup, as shown.
Insert the semi-finished battery prepared in step 6 into the holder.
Add 10 drops of 5M ammonium chloride solution NH4Cl.
Using the funnel, add 3 measuring spoons (flat) of the graphite powder and manganese dioxide MnO2 mixture.
Insert a piece of cotton wool into the tube covering the mixture completely.
Press in tightly as shown. Use the black ball-ended plastic stirring rod.
Holding the rod firmly against the mixture, adjust the graphite lead exposed length. Approximately 2 mm should be left free, as shown.
Using the funnel, add zinc over the cotton wool, as shown. Approximately 1 cm layer of zinc is optimal.
Moisten the zinc with ammonium chloride solution NH4Cl. Use 4-6 drops.
Fill the remaining space in the tube with balled foil.
Repeat steps 4-16 to assembly the second battery. In step 7, use the battery holder prepared earlier.
Insert the batteries into the battery holder provided, as shown. Observe the batteries polarity! The one end of the battery that is filled with foil should be placed against the spring contact of the holder. Connect the LED (3V) to the holder wires. LED is glowing!
Amazing chemistry experiments to do with your family: https://melscience.com/en/
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4. You can open a new set twice a month. Performing these experiments with your family will become the best part of your weekend!
True science, with educational value
• You could spend just 60 minutes twice a month enjoying science with your child. However, your child could also choose to spend much more time using our app and website to study more interesting science facts.
• The graphic instructions are so detailed that your children will be able to do the experiments easily.
• All experiments are performed using practical single-use lab ware.
• The reactions have been verified. All of the experiments will work.
• Sets comply to European regulation EN 71-4 on safety of experiments sets.
• Every experiment set has been tested by schoolchildren aged 12+.
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Post time: Apr-05-2017