Build a Battery

About Build a Battery

Building battery packs demonstrates how galvanic cells convert chemical energy to electrical energy through spontaneous redox reactions. When connected in series, individual cell voltages add up to achieve the total voltage needed to power different devices. Students learn about electrode potentials, with magnesium being a stronger reducing agent than zinc, resulting in higher voltage per cell in Mg/Cu combinations.

This experiment teaches fundamental electrochemical principles essential for battery pack design in electric vehicles, portable electronics, backup power systems, and renewable energy storage. Understanding cell voltage and capacity relationships is crucial for optimal battery performance and safety in modern applications.