Class description
This one day workshop focuses on the fuel cell
technology, in particular the microbial fuel cells.
All organisms obtain energy from various food sources
for their growth and reproduction, and they do this
through a series of chemical reactions involving the
transfer of electrons (e-) to electron acceptors.
In Electricity from Bugs, you will learn about and
observe how the energy-generating systems of common,
garden variety bacteria can be harnessed to produce
electricity in microbial fuel cells.
You will construct and use a small microbial fuel cell
to measure electricity generated by bacteria that
occur naturally in garden soil, mulch, compost, and
manure, and by using Ohm’s Law you will determine the
amount of power produced under different conditions.
You can easily follow up the experiments at home by
constructing a very simple fuel cell that will allow
you to test many naturally occurring populations
microorganisms as alternative sources of energy.
Age range: 16 and up, previous or current class in chemistry or physics recommended.
Maximum class size: 14 students
Related web sites
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Recommended reading
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Registration must be completed 2 weeks prior to start of class.
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This page last updated: April 9, 2008 |