Question

In the experiment to test for conduction of electricity through potato, which of the following observations indicate that a potato is a conductor of electricity?
A. Greenish blue spot on potato around one wire
B. Greenish blue spot on potato around both wires
C. Blue color spot on potato around one wire
D. Blue color spot on potato around both wires

Answer 1

To generate electrical conductivity or electricity, two electrodes and an electrolyte that induces a chemical reaction can be employed. The liquid potato is used as an electrolyte in the potato experiment, and two electrodes are used to produce electrical conductivity.

Complete answer:
In the potato conducting experiment, we create a rudimentary battery out of potatoes that can transmit electricity and light a small bulb when wires are connected. Potatoes are used in the experiment because they contain components such as proteins, carbs, starch, minerals, and others that aid in the conductivity of electricity.

When the wire is connected to the two ends of the potato (usually copper wire), electrons flow towards the negative terminal of the wire when a small amount of electricity is passed, and the electrons at the negative terminal cause electrolysis of the material within the potato, resulting in the generation of more electrons.

Now, all of the electrons will flow towards the positive terminal of the wire (because electrons flow from negative to positive terminal in current), and when they reach the positive terminal, Copper wire is present there, and a small bit of it will react with the negative species, causing a color shift. As a result of the reaction with copper wire, it will become a greenish blue color spot.

Hence, option A is the correct answer.

Note: The potato is unable to generate electricity on its own. It's only the medium, which also serves as an electrolyte in the electrolytic process. A potato's juices and liquids inside it make it a good electrolyte for this process.