Tuesday, January 3, 2012

From Hydrogen to Tellurium - CADMIUM

Cadmium 
The 48th element is 
Cadmium  and is symbolised using the letters Cd.
Cadmium is a silver metal, but although it is next to silver on the periodic table it's colourful is the only similar trait the two elements have.
Cadmium  is a soft metal which can be easily cut with a knife. Another important thing to mow is that it is toxic and therefore it is unlikely that you will come across it in a school setting.

It's most common use is in Ni-Cd batteries - rechargeable batteries.


Experiment of the week
To compare Ni-Cd and NiMH (Nickel Metal hydride) batteries.

You will need
An AA Ni-Cd battery
a AA NiMH battery
2 2.5V light bulbs
2 bulb holders
2 AA battery holders with flying leads
4 crocodile clips
Timer
Adult supervision

What to do
Ensure the batteries are fully. Barged.
Make up 2 circuits with the bulbs in the bulb holders connected to the battery holders.
Insert the Ni-Cd battery into one circuit and the NiMH battery into the other circuit.both the lights should light.
Start the timer.
Measure how long both bulbs light for to measure which battery is the best.

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