Saltwater powered light bulb

A Science Investigatory Project

Presented to
Department of Science
Central Taytay National High School

In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the
Special Science Class Grade-9

By:
Caden Russel D Ronquillo
 INTRODUCTION

According to Mujahidin (2023) fossil energy, which runs out and cannot be

replenished, is the energy source that is now in use. Therefore, the development of electrical

energy has started to be derived from non-exhaustive alternative energy sources in order to

meet the need for electrical energy. Seawater energy is one of the energies that is being

discussed right now. This marine energy source generates electrical energy using a similar

mechanism to a galvanic battery, which is made up of electrodes and an electrolyte

solution.Welsby (2021) stated that the urgent need to reduce their use, particularly in the

context of limiting global warming to 1.5 °C. This would require leaving a significant portion

of fossil fuel reserves unextracted, a challenge that necessitates a shift towards renewable

energy sources.

Mujahidin (2023) studied that when it comes to electricity, it has been determined

that the main energy sources, whether domestically produced or imported, must be used to

their fullest potential in accordance with national energy policies in order to ensure a

sustainable supply of electricity. This includes integrating the smartgrid system as a source of

ignition (lamp) with a voltage source from saltwater and figuring out how the number of

plates affects voltage and electric current values in order to produce electricity for lamps.

Zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) electrodes are being used in research to find electrode types that

satisfy the requirements for powering prototypes of alternative lamps employing seawater

voltage sources. Negi (2017) conducted that the salt water has been used to produce

electricity through simple electrochemical cell containing two electrodes made up of copper
as anode & aluminium as cathode and salt water as electrolyte. The experiments have been

performed by taking all the three above mentioned salts as electrrolyte one by one.

A series of studies have explored the potential of saltwater as a renewable energy

source for lighting. Bani (2018) and Mujahidin (2023) both investigated the use of saltwater-

powered lamps in rural and remote areas, with Bani focusing on the factors affecting

performance and Mujahidin on the integration of a smartgrid system. Saputra (2020) and Jena

(2022) specifically looked at the use of saltwater batteries to power LED lamps, with Saputra

finding that a seawater battery could power a green LED-DIP lamp for 12 hours and Jena

suggesting a rechargeable saltwater battery system for electric lanterns. These studies

collectively suggest that saltwater-powered lighting is a promising and environmentally

friendly alternative, particularly for off-grid and coastal communities

Research has shown that saltwater can be used as a source of electricity. Aminuddin

(2014) found a linear correlation between salinity and electric voltage, suggesting that higher

salinity can generate more electricity. Haq (2018) demonstrated the production of electrical

currents using saltwater as an electrolyte, with the potential for use in power plants. Park

(2016) developed a rechargeable saltwater battery, offering a low-cost and safe energy

storage solution. These studies collectively highlight the potential of saltwater as a viable and

sustainable source of electricity.

The purpose of this study is the use of saltwater as a source of electricity for lighting

is an innovative and sustainable approach to situations like power outage. This method

utilizes the electrochemical properties of saltwater to generate electricity, which can power a

light bulb. The process involves the use of an electrolyte solution, formed by mixing
saltwater with certain metals or electrodes, to conduct electrical current. The positive and

negative ions in the saltwater allow for the flow of electrons, creating an electric current that

can be harnessed and used to power a light bulb.

Research Objectives

This study focuses on using unique and natural sources to conduct electricity. These are

the following objectives:

1. To investigate the amount of saltwater in powering the lightbulb.

2. To determine the duration of which the light bulb will be powered.

3. To know how the amount of saltwater affect its duration.

Null Hypothesis

There is no significant relationship between the amount of saltwater and the duration of

the light bulb.

Alternative Hypothesis

There is a significant relationship between the amount of saltwater and the duration of the

light bulb.

Theoretical Framework

Saltwater can power a light bulb using an electrochemical cell, where saltwater acts as

an electrolyte solution, creating an electrical circuit with electrodes like zinc and copper to
generate electricity and light up the bulb. This method demonstrates the potential of saltwater

as a sustainable and cost-effective energy source for lighting systems. Additionally, the

theoretical framework may include investigating the history of renewable sources in

accordance with the salt and water concentration.

Conceptual framework

Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Salt and
Duration of
Water
light bulb
Concentration

Definition of Terms

Salt and water Concentration:

Conceptual Definition: Salt and water concentration refer to the amount of salt dissolved in a

given volume of water.

Operational Definition: To produce salt and water Concentration, one has to mix and dissolve

salt in a volume of water.

Duration of light bulb:

Conceptual Definition: The duration of a light bulb refers to the length of time the light bulb

remains functional.
Operational Definition: In the context of this study, the duration of the light bulb will be

measured using a timer to test how effective the concentration.

Significance of the Study

1. To students: The study of saltwater as an alternative source of energy for lighting is an

excellent educational opportunity. It can help students understand electrochemistry

and the practical application of scientific principles. It also offers a hands-on way to

learn about sustainable energy solutions and the properties of saltwater as a conductor

of electricity

2. To communities: Saltwater lamps offer a cost-effective and environmentally friendly

lighting solution for communities, especially in rural areas with limited access to

electricity. They are safe, portable, and can provide long-lasting illumination, making

them a valuable resource for communities that lack reliable power infrastructure

3. To future researchers: The research on saltwater as an alternative energy source for

lighting provides a foundation for future studies in the field of sustainable energy. It

offers insights into the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and practical applications of

saltwater lamps, which can inspire further research and innovation in this area

Scope and Limitations

The scope of the study is to design and develop a saltwater powered light bulb

that can be used as an alternative to traditional light bulbs. The study will focus on the

feasibility of using saltwater as a source of energy to power the light bulb. This research

study will be conducted at Central Taytay National High School (CTNHS) . The study has

several limitations a mineral primarily composed of sodium chloride (NaCl) and is used in
various forms for seasoning food, as a preservative, and in numerous industrial

applicationsthat should be considered. Such as, the study will only focus on the feasibility of

using saltwater as a source of energy to power the light bulb.

METHODOLOGY

Methodology is the systematic and theoretical study of research methods in a

specific field. It defmes the principles, processes, and techniques used to carry out research,

gather data, and analyze information to answer research questions or achieve specific goals.

Methodology is essential for ensuring the reliability validity, and credibility of research

findings.

Research Design

This study will use the experimental research design to examine the relationship

between amount of concentration and duration of lightbulb. This would involve

systematically testing different trials by creating different saltwater solutions with varying

salt concentrations (e.g., low, medium, high). Then the researcher will measure and record the

duration of light bulb illumination for each solution. The number of trials will be set for 3

trials and subject to change and will depend on the conditions during the actual

experimentations.

Preparations of Materials
Table 1: Amount of materials needed

Materials Description Quantity

1.Salt A mineral primarily ½ cup
composed of sodium
chloride (NaCl) and is used
in various forms for
seasoning food, as a
preservative, and in
numerous industrial
 applications.
2.Water A vital compound for all 1 cup
known forms of life, made
up of two hydrogen atoms
and one oxygen atom (H2O)
3 Light bulb An electrical device that 1, 3.7V
converts electrical energy
into light.
4.Plastic cups or containers A container made from 2 pcs
plastic, often used for
holding beverages.

5.Insulated copper wire Copper wires coated with 10 feet

insulating materials like
plastic or enamel to protect
them from environmental
factors, ensuring safe
electricity flow.
6.Tape A long, narrow piece of 1 rool
material that can be sticky or
non-sticky, used for various
purposes.
7.Aluminum Plates A form of industrial 2, 5” × 7”
aluminium, made from the
metal itself and varying
amounts of other elements
such as copper, zinc,
magnesium, manganese, and
silicon, which enhance its
strength and durability.
Alligator clips Are spring-loaded metal 4 pcs
clips with long, serrated
jaws that open and close
similar to an alligator’s
mouth. They are used for
creating temporary electrical
connections, and are
commonly found in
electrical circuits.

8.Galvanized roofing nails Nails coated with zinc to 2 pcs

enhance their durability and
resistance to corrosion.n
9.Battery An electrochemical device 1, 9V
that stores and supplies
electrical energy.

Procedures
1. Prepare the saltwater solution: Dissolve ½ cup of salt in 1 cup of water in a plastic cup.

2. Prepare the aluminum plates: Clean the aluminum plates and make sure they are free of

any residue or coating.

3. Connect the light bulb: Remove the light bulb from its socket and carefully strip the

insulation from the ends of the copper wire. Attach an alligator clip to each stripped end, and

then attach the other ends of the alligator clips to the light bulb’s contact points.

4. Connect the battery: Attach the alligator clips to the battery terminals. The light bulb

should light up briefly, indicating that it is working.

5. Prepare the aluminum plate electrodes: Cut two pieces of insulated copper wire, each about

5 feet long. Strip about 1 inch of insulation from both ends of each wire. Attach one end of

each wire to the aluminum plates using tape.

6. Insert the galvanized roofing nails: Insert one nail into each aluminum plate, about 1 inch

from the wire connection. This will create a small gap between the nail and the wire.

7. Set up the electrolysis cell: Fill the second plastic cup with the saltwater solution. Insert the

aluminum plates into the cup, making sure the nails are not touching the bottom of the cup.

The plates should be submerged in the solution, with a small gap between the nail and the

wire.

8. Connect the light bulb to the electrodes: Attach the alligator clips from the light bulb to the

free ends of the copper wires attached to the aluminum plates.

9. Test the Light Bulb: measure it’s duration and test on basing on the salt and water amount.

Compare each with the changing of the amount.

Risk and Safety

 While following the steps when doing the experiment, the researcher might get cut by

the sharp edges of the aluminum plates or get electrified. The researcher may also wear

gloves and laboratory coat to prevent harm and accidents.

Data Gathering Procedure

The researcher intends to collect data through the utilization of a salt and water

powered light bulb. Furthermore, the researcher will be gathering data by observing and

comparing the duration of the light bulb with several trials with varying concentrations of salt

and water.

Data Analysis

In order to guarantee a thorough and unbiased examination of the subject matter, the

investigator will utilize various techniques for gathering evidence. The researcher will

compare the outcomes of three or more unrelated samples or groups using the analysis of

variance, often known as one-way ANOVA, to look for differences. ANOVA is relevant to

our inquiry since it will determine the association between the variables from unrelated

samples from the trials. The researcher will compare the results of numerous trials using

different concentrations of water and salt to gather the data.

Results and Discussion

This chapter presents the results and discussion that the researcher have gathered

through the process of conducting experiments the effectiveness of the salt and water

Concentration powered light bulb.

Table 1: Amount of Concentration

 Trials Amount of water Amount of salt
1
2
3

Table 2: Testing of Lightbulb

DID THE LIGHT BULB
LIT UP?
TRIAL 1
TRIAL 2
TRIAL 3

Table 3: Relationship of amount of concentration in the duration of lightbulb

Trials Amount of Amount of salt Result Duration/Time

water

Discussion

In this research, we aimed to investigate the relationship between the concentration of

a salt solution and the duration of a lightbulb’s illumination. This investigation holds

significance as it sheds light on the conductivity properties of solutions and their practical

applications. Our experimental setup involved three key tables. In Table 1, we varied the

concentration levels by altering the amounts of water and salt in the solution. This allowed us

to create a spectrum of concentrations to test. In Table 2, we recorded whether the lightbulb

lit up during each trial, providing crucial data on the conductivity of the solutions. Finally,
Table 3 correlated the concentration levels with the illumination duration of the lightbulb,

providing insights into the relationship between concentration and conductivity.

Acknowledgement

The researcher would like to express their outmost appreciation to the following people who

have helped the researcher in completing this study.

Ma’am Estela L. Callao, our Research teacher, for sharing her wide knowledge in writing a

research proposal and giving her all to help each and every one of her students.

Ma’am Jackqueline Arzaga Malagday, our Class Advicer, for giving tips and sharing her

experiences in defending her proposed title.

Ma’am Dianna Mercado, Head Teacher III and Science Department Coordinator, for giving

honest opinion and helpful advice about our different research titles.

Rogelie V. Bagona, Aries P. Venturillo, and Kurt Patrick D. Serencio my fellow peers and

classmates, for helping me in the step-by-step procedure in making the paper.

Family members, for giving their support financially and mentally.

Members of the panel, for giving their truthful opinions and offering recommendations on the

proposal.