4V9Ah lead acid batteries are rechargeable, but never charge them while conducting this experiment.
If your cup has a lid, attach it after adding the salt and shake it up and down to mix the salt it in. Make sure all the salt is completely dissolved for best results.
Never cut the pencils in the direction of a body part or another person.
Be sure the pencils’ body is covered with wood—there should be wood underneath the exposed lead after pushing the ends through the cardboard or paper.
Use scissors to snip off a piece of the paper or cardboard if it covers all of the glass.
Be sure not to cross uncovered sections of the lead. Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area or set up a fan because the hydrogen and the oxygen can burn and explode with any little spark and chlorine can be toxic. [5] X Research source If you accidentally start an electrical fire, smother it with a dry blanket or fire extinguisher. Never pour water on it because water conducts electricity which can shock you.
Never touch the wires while the battery is on.
Be careful not to touch the tips of the pencils that were submerged in the NaOH—they can severely burn your skin.
Don’t use aluminum to boil your solution or the dish will melt. Never boil your solution in a kitchen, outdoors, or in a non-chemically designed ventilation area. Use chemical gloves (not regular kitchen gloves) while handling the solution. NaOH is extremely basic and can cause severe chemical burns if it contacts your skin.
Always use caution and remember that you can severely burn yourself. This is extremely dangerous since you now have a solution that is upwards of 65% NaOH.
“HIGHLY BASIC” “HIGHLY CORROSIVE” ‘“NaOH” “LYE” “CAUSTIC”
