College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
5E40.30 - Battery - Avalanche Voltage
Connect the flash bulb to the copper and magnesium electrodes. Pour a small amount of FRESH sulfuric acid into the beaker and insert the copper electrode. Quickly inserting the magnesium electrode will trigger the flash bulb showing a substantial current flow.
NOTE: Works with any acid that sustains a high density current flow. If fresh sulfuric acid is not available you may use hydrochloric acid in its place.
Bassam Z. Shakhashiri, Chemical Demonstrations Vol. 2, University of Wisconsin Press, 1985, p. 109.
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