Our Intro to Electronics comes with two DIY beginner electronic kits.
1) Potato Power:
In this experiment we will guide you through how to create an electric battery out of an ordinary potato. In most commercial batteries, electricity is generated by a chemical reaction between two electrodes (copper and zinc) and an electrolyte (sulfuric acid). The liquid in a potato can act as the electrolyte and generate electricity between two electrodes. This experiment explores concepts such as early chemical reactions, electricity, encourages observational and analytic skills. Try this experiment on a variety of foods to test their ability to conduct energy.
2) Mini Vacuum:
In this experiment you will assemble a hand-held vacuum, by attaching wires to the motor, adding a fan, bottle, mesh netting and securing the base. When the fan is turned on, low air pressure is created inside the container and air rushes into areas of lower pressure. By using a plastic bottle, the container opening tapers to a small aperture which causes the force of the wind to carry dust and debris with it. If you place a filter inside the container, air will pass through it, but debris won't and will instead collect inside the container until you empty it.
Both experiments will leave you feeling em'powered' and provide a great introduction into the exciting world of electronics.
You will need:
1) 2 potatoes (and other foods you may want to try, pickles, bananas and cola are good choices)
2) Plastic bottle ( seen in the picture)
Recommended for ages 6+