Ask A Scientist© Engineering Archive

Index Key:   ENG010
Author:      stager
Subject:     Electricity generation
Text:        How do I generate electricity using no moving parts. (like using 
dripping water)

Response #:  1 of 2
Author:      dipper
Text:        There are many ways to generate electricity with no moving parts.  
Batteries do it constantly.  Another of the many ways is a device called a 
thermocouple.  This device generated electricity by differences in 
temperature.  There are many other ways.  I just thought of another way -- I 
suppose that there are actually dozens, so as you also think of some, write to 
my login name and we can discuss how each works -- how about solar energy as 
in solar cells?

Response #:  2 of 2
Author:      cdmurphy
Text:        A way to use your dripping water to generate electricity is to 
use the piezoelectric effect.  The piezoelectric effect uses pressure on 
amaterial to create a current of electricity in that material.  Quartz or 
Rochelle salt generates a current across it when a mechanical pressure (such 
as dripping water) is applied.  Granted dripping water will not cause a large 
current, but a current none the less.  The piezoelectric effect is mainly put 
to use in your mom or dad's record player.  By rubbing the needle (a small 
piece of quartz probably) over the rough edges of the phonograph record, a 
small current is produced.  That small current goes to an amplifier which 
increases the current level.  That current is then sent to the speakers and 
then sound is created by the speakers.  I too am glad to see your interest in 
science at an early age.  Stick with it.  Science is fun even when you get 
older.