How to Make a Volta Pile

Volta's Pile, also known as the Voltaic Pile,is invented by Alessendro Volta, and is the first electric cell invented.You can make a simpler version with zinc washers,cardboard and pennies.

Step 1: Stack Them Up.

Cut the cardboard into circles and wet them with salty water.

Stack a card circle on a zinc washer, then a penny on the card circle.Stack another card circle on the penny then a washer on top of it. Repeat the process until it is an inch tall.Make sure a penny is at the top of the stack.

Step 2: Connect the Wires

The penny at the top will be your positive electrode and the washer at the bottom will be your negative electrode.Connect a wire to each of the two electrodes.

Step 3: Try It Out.

Try making light by connecting an LED to the electrodes,try making a motor spin with it and try touching the electrode wires to your tongue.