REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Region VII, Central Visayas
MACTAN NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
Junior High School
Lapu-Lapu City

COMPARATIVE RESEARCH

Title:

COMPARING THE SUSTAINABILITY OF LIGHTING UP A LED BULB BY

LEMON (RUTACEAE) AND BATTERY SOLD IN THE MARKET

Proponents:

Katrina Allondra P. Taping

1
 Table of contents

1. Cover page .……………………………………………………………………....................1

2. Table of contents …………………………………………………………….………...........2
1.1 Table of contents……………………………………..…………….………...........3
3. Abstract ……………………………………………………………….…………..................4
4. Introduction ……………...……………………………………..…………….......................5
2.1 Statement of the problem ……………………….…………………….…..……....6
2.2 Formulation of hypothesis ……………...…………………….............................6
2.3 Significance of the study ………………………………………..……….........…..6
2.4 Scope and delimitation of the study …….…………………………………..……7
2.5 Definition of terms...……………………………..….….…………………......……7
5. Conceptual framework …… ………...…………………………………………..…………8
6. Review of related literature ………………………………………………………………....9
3.1 Where does lemon battery started ….………….……………………..…….……9
3.2 How can a lemon light up a bulb ………….………..………………..………….10
3.3 Chemical reaction between lemon and copper .………..………..……...…….10
3.4 Chemical composition of lemon …………………………..……….……………11
3.5 Chemical composition of copper …………………………..……..……………..11
3.6 Flow of electrons between lemon and wire …………………….…..………….12
3.7 Chemical composition of zinc …………………………………….……………..12
3.8 Chemical reaction between lemons and zinc ……………………….………...13
3.9 Days for the lemon to decay…………………………………..…...…………….13
3.10 Lemon as stain removal…………………………….…………………...……...14
7. The procedures …………………………………………………………………….………15
3.1 Procedure 1 ………………………….…………………………….……….……..15
3.2 Procedure 2 ……………………………………………………………….….…...15
3.3 Procedure 3 ……………………………………………………………..………...16
3.4 Procedure 4 ……………………………………………………………….………16

2
 Table of contents
3.5 Procedure 5 ……………………………………………………………………16
3.6 Procedure 6 ……………………………………………………………………17
3.7 Finish product ………………….………………………………………………17
8. Results …………………………………………………………………………………..18
4.1 Results for number of lemons ……………………………………………….18
4.2 Results negative/cathode ………………………………………………..….18
4.3 Results for amount of voltage every lemon will produce ……………......19
4.4 Results for squeeze and not squeeze lemon …………………………..…20
4.5 Results size of (copper wire) anode/positive …………………….………..20
9. Summary ……………………………………………………………………………....…21
10. Conclusion ………………………………………………………………………….…..21
11. Recommendation …………………………………………………………………..….22
12. Bibliography ……………………………………………………………………………..23

3
 Abstract

Lemon batteries are simple and inexpensive ways to generate electricity. This
paper explores the potential of using lemon to light up a bulb, the basic components of a
lemon battery, how they interact to create an electrical current, and the practical
applications of using lemon batteries. It also discusses the potential drawbacks of using
lemon batteries, such as limited power output and short lifespan. Further research is
needed to determine if lemon batteries can be used as a viable alternative energy
source. This product is recommended for people in rural and slums area due to the
depletion of the Malampaya natural gas fields, which provide about a third of the energy
needs of Luzon Island, the Philippines are facing an impending energy crisis. In
December 2021, Super Typhoon ‘Odette’ caused a widespread power outage affecting
more than 3 million families, making it difficult for power supply to resume at full tilt. This
study could provide an option for electrical source and lessen people’s dependence on
electricity.

The product is constructed by preparing; 2 cm nail that are coated with zinc; 4
large 110 grams lemons; voltmeter; and LED light with 10 wattages; 5 pairs of alligator
clip; pliers; 5 cm copper wire. First, wash your hands thoroughly. Second, put on mask
and laboratory gown. Then, prepare the materials. After that, insert the copper wire into
the lemon. Next, get the zinc-coated nails then insert it into the lemon, do it to the rest.
Sixth, prepare the alligator clip, positive is in the copper wire then negative is in the zinc-
coated nail. Lastly, connect the alligator clip into the LED bulb.

4
 Chapter 1

Introduction

The Philippines has a rapidly increasing need for electricity, a supply that
frequently falls short of this need and a difference in the rate of electrification between
urban and rural areas. Even more expensive than in metropolitan regions are electricity
tariffs in rural areas.

By performing experiments and starting with lighting a bulb out of a lemon, this
study will investigate the possibility of lemons serving as an electric source. This study
may offer a solution to the growing issue facing our nation. We’ll use lemons to look for
possible alternatives for our electricity supply.

A ubiquitous fruit, the lemon is an oval, yellow citrus fruit with thick skin and
acidic, fragrant juice. But did you know that in science, a lemon can also be used to light
up a bulb? The chemical reaction between the acidic juice and the metal electrodes of
the bulb causes this phenomenon. This particular characteristic of lemons has been
investigated and used in a number of scientific disciplines, including biochemistry and
renewable energy. The science underlying utilizing a lemon to light a bulb will be
examined in this study, along with any prospective scientific applications.

When the zinc and lemon react, the lemon's citric acid releases electrons. The
chemical compound HOC (CO2H) (CH2CO2H) 2, an organic compound with the
chemical formula HOC (CO2H) (CH2CO2H) 2, is present in the juice of the lemon, it
occurs naturally in citrus fruit that act like the electrolyte. The electrons from the nail flow
through the wire causing the bulb to light up. Copper has a greater affinity for electrons
than zinc, causing free electrons to migrate towards copper once the electrodes are
linked through wires. The flow of electrons, known as an electric current, is responsible
for illuminating the bulb. The sour juice contained in lemons can generate sufficient
energy to activate an LED when joined with copper and zinc.

5
 Statement of the problem

The study aims to focus on providing the best answer on the aim to the potential
of lemon to light up a bulb. Specifically, this research will find answers to the following:

1. Will the lemon make the bulb light up?

2. How many volts will the lemon produce?
3. What will be the advantages and disadvantages of using lemon to light up a bulb?
4. Who will benefit this research?

Formulation of hypothesis

Alternative hypothesis: There is a significant difference between the voltage that the
lemon will produce and the number of lemons used.

Null hypothesis: There is no significant difference between the length of copper wire and
its ability to conduct electricity.

Cause and effect: If we use lemon battery, then the dependence to electricity will
lessen.

Significance of the study

The significance of the study is that it demonstrates the potential for alternative
and sustainable sources of energy. By harnessing the power of natural substances,
such as lemon, we can reduce people’s reliance on non-renewable energy sources and
decrease our carbon footprint. Additionally, this study can inspire further research and
innovation in the field of renewable energy, leading to new and more efficient ways of
generating electricity. Overall, this study highlights the importance of exploring
alternative sources of energy to promote a more sustainable future.

6
 Scope and delimitation of the study

The general intent of this study is to investigate the feasibility of using lemon as a
source of electricity to light up a bulb. The study will focus on the process of extracting
electricity from a lemon, the materials and equipment needed, and the factors that affect
the efficiency of the lemon battery. The study will also explore the potential applications
of this technology in the field of renewable energy.

This study is limited to using lemons as the primary source of electricity. Other
fruits or vegetables will not be included in the study. This study will explore the potential
of lemons to be an electric source by experimenting and beginning with lightening a
bulb out of it, this study will not try powering larger devices. The study will also be
limited to the materials and equipment that are readily available and affordable for the
average person. The study will not cover the commercial viability of using lemon
batteries as a source of electricity. The self of decomposing fresh, whole lemons can up
to one week if stored at room temperature. This study will use 4 lemons every
experiment.

Definition of terms

1. Lemon – a citrus fruit that serves as electrical source to light up the bulb.
2. Electricity – an energy that produced by the lemon by citric acid to light up a bulb.
3. Electrolytes – a liquid that contains ions that is present in the lemon.
4. Citric Acid – a chemical element that produced by the lemon and serves as an
alternative for electrolyte.
5. Copper wires – an electrical bridge to connect the lemons to the other to light up the
bulb.
6. Zinc – the chemical element used to coat the nails that are used to be able to
transfer the electricity.
7. Bulb – a small and simple light source that uses a wire filament to glow on the
application of electricity. The bulb is what will light up in using lemons.

7
 Chapter 2
Conceptual Framework

PROCEDURES

AMOUNT OF LEMONS USED

SUSTAINABILITY OF SIZE OF COPPER WIRE

LED TO LIGHT UP USED
USING LEMONS

KIND OF NAIL USED

The conceptual framework for this study is shown above. It has four parts;
procedures as independent variable; sustainability of LED to light up using lemons as
dependent variable; amount of lemon used as controlled variable; size of copper wire
used as controlled variable; kind of nail used as controlled variable.

8
 Review of Related Literature

This chapter presents the relevant literature and studies that the researcher
considered in strengthening the importance of the present study. This will include the
following: where does lemon battery started; studies on how can a lemon light up a
bulb; chemical reaction between lemon and copper; chemical composition of lemon;
chemical composition of copper; flow of electrons between the lemon and the wire;
chemical composition of zinc; chemical reaction between lemons and zinc; days for the
lemon to decay; lemon as stain removal.

1. Where does lemon battery started.

The first electrical battery, created in 1800 by Alessandro Volta in Italy using
brine rather than lemon juice, is comparable to the lemon battery. It is described in
textbooks to illustrate the chemical reactions that occur in batteries. The zinc and
copper are the electrodes, and the juice inside the lemon is the electrolyte. Variations of
the lemon battery use different fruits and metals other than zinc and copper as
electrodes. wikibooks (2021)

The advantages of a lemon battery are that it could be a renewable resource and
a power source that does not pollute the environment, and is biodegradable in origin. It
is a simple setup and requires no real expertise in electronics or electrical engineering.
Single lemons can only produce a few volts of energy, but if multiple lemons are
introduced, more electricity could be produced. With enough power from these lemons,
we could have enough energy to run anything from a bulb to a laptop. If we could find a
way to get past the problems of space and quantities, we may be able to power
anything. science project (2012)

9
 2. How can a lemon light up a bulb

This study investigated the effect of activated carbon catalyst addition on the
voltage and current electric generated from liquid lemon (C 6 H 8 O 7) and NaOH. The
data measured was 125 ml of an electrolyte solution of lemon juice (C 6 H 8 O 7) and
NaOH 10 grams. The results showed that the addition of activated carbon can
accelerate the breaking molecular bond between NaOH and C 3 H 5 O (COOH) which
decomposes into ions and reacts with NaCH 2 COO+ and Cu 2+ cathode into a
reluctant. The currents produced ranged from 33.846 to 43.462 mA second. LED lights
are turned on by this voltage and current producing method. Jurnal Rekayasa Mesin
(2020)

Batteries combine copper and zinc (referred to as the electrodes) with an

electrolyte, a liquid or paste, inside a metal cylinder. The positive (+) battery terminal is
made of copper, whereas the negative (-) terminal is made of zinc. Lemon juice serves
as the electrolyte in our lemon battery. It includes acid, just like ordinary batteries do.
When acid attacks zinc atoms, some of them transform into positively charged ions
(charged atoms with an uneven distribution of protons or electrons). The two metals
start an electric current with one another. The electrons that were on the zinc atoms are
not transferred to the zinc ions. They flow from the zinc electrode into the copper
electrode when a wire is connected to the battery terminals. Until the electrolyte
expends all of its chemical energy and can’t react with the metal anymore, and the
battery dies. Electrolyte is why this type of battery is called a chemical battery.
Panasonic (2021)

3. Chemical reaction between lemon and copper

Copper and brass react with moist carbon dioxide in air to form copper
carbonate, resulting in a green layer of copper carbonate. Citric acid present in lemon or
tamarind juice neutralises the base copper carbonate and dissolves the layer, so

10
tarnished copper vessels are cleaned with lemon or tamarind juice to give the surface
its characteristic lustre. BYJU’S (2023)

Copper vessels become tarnished due to a layer of copper oxide, which is

neutralized by lemon juice, resulting in the formation of salt and water. This salt is
removed by washing, so copper vessels are cleaned using lemon. Haygot Technologies
(2023)

4. Chemical composition of lemon

This review presents important botanical, chemical and pharmacological

characteristics of Citrus limon (lemon), a species with valuable pharmaceutical,
cosmetic and culinary properties. It is determined by its high content of phenolic
compounds, mainly flavonoids and phenolic acids. Bioactive monoterpenoids such D-
limonene, -pinene, and -terpinene are abundant in the essential oil. Medicinal effects of
C, which have recently been scientifically proved. Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial,
anticancer, and antiparasitic properties of lime are present.

The review pays particular attention to the use of C. limon in the food industry
and cosmetology, as well as the safety of use and potential phototoxicity of the raw
materials. Finally, the review emphasizes the significance of biotechnological studies on
C. limon. Citronnier Phytotherapie (2014)

5. Chemical composition of copper

One of the ductilest metals—not particularly hard or strong—is copper. It is a

mixture of two stable isotopes: copper-63 copper-65 (30.85%) and copper-69 (69.15%).
In nature, copper is present in the free metallic state and was originally utilized by
Neolithic humans (about 8000 BCE) as a substitute for stone. Natural copper is a
mixture of two stable isotopes: copper-63 and copper-69. Mesopotamia saw the
beginning of metallurgy as copper was shaped in molds (about 4000 BCE), reduced to

11
metal from ores using fire and charcoal, and purposefully alloyed with tin to become
bronze (around 3500 BCE). science academy (2019)

6. Flow of electrons between lemon and wire

Inside a wire or battery there are millions and millions of electrons. So, when you
turn on a switch, you start a big stream of electrons moving. When the flow reaches a
light bulb, it has to pass through a thin thread of wire called a filament. The filament is
so thin that the electrons have to push hard; this makes the filament heat up and glow.
BrambleKids (2020)

7. Chemical composition of zinc

With the atomic number 30 and the symbol Zn, zinc is a chemical element. When
the oxidation is removed, zinc transforms into a shiny-greyish metal that is slightly brittle
at room temperature. It is the first element in the periodic table's group 12 (IIB). Both
zinc and magnesium have only one normal oxidation state (+2) and similarly sized Zn2+
and Mg2+ ions, respectively. [Note 1] Zinc is the 24th most abundant element in the
Earth's crust and has five stable isotopes. Sphalerite, a zinc sulfide mineral, is the most
typical zinc ore. Australia, Asia, and the United States have the biggest workable lodes.
By froth flotation of the ore, roasting, and subsequent extraction using electricity
(electrowinning). Wikipedia (2023)

12
 8. Chemical reaction between lemon and zinc

The source of electric energy in this demonstration is the combination of copper

and zinc strips in the citric acid of the lemon.

The citric acid of the lemon reacts with the zinc and loosens electrons. Copper
pulls electrons more strongly than zinc, so loose electrons will move towards the copper
when the electrodes are connected by wires. Moving electrons are called an electric
current, which is what lights up the bulb. Science World Society (2023)

9. Days for a lemon to decay.

How you store a lemon affects how long it will last. It will only last up to a week if
you leave it out on your counter. It will last for a couple of days if it's hot outside or
inside your house. Lemons will last for about two weeks if they are stored in cool places
away from heat. Lemons can only be kept for a maximum of four to six weeks in the
refrigerator. Lemons that have been cut up will only keep in the fridge for a week or so if
they are covered or in a container. Lemons are not well-preserved in hot, humid
climates. A lemon's lifespan will be extended by cooler, if not cold, environments. Citrus
(2023)

13
 10. Lemon as stain removal

Lemon is a natural solution for getting rid of stains on clothing, ceramic surfaces,
and even plastic. Lemon juice is a good substitute for harsh bleaches and other
chemicals because of its natural whitening action, which can be accelerated by
exposure to sunlight. Lemonier (2017)

He explains that lemon juice is a natural disinfectant and will aid in eradicating
any bacteria that might be on your clothing. It is a natural fabric softener and will keep
your clothes feeling and looking their best; the manufacturer claims. Bret was able to
answer my question about how exactly this juice makes my laundry look so bright,
which was a natural curiosity of mine. Lemon juice's clean, fresh scent will leave your
laundry smelling nice. It can help your laundry look brighter because it is a natural
bleaching agent, he adds. Your laundry will remain bright and clean if you add a little
lemon juice. Gardens in homes (2021)

14
 Chapter 3

The Procedures

Materials used:

 5 cm copper wire
 2 cm zinc-coated nails
 110 grams lemon
 Pliers
 Voltmeter
 LED bulb 10 watts
 4 pairs of alligator clip

General Procedures:

1. Wash thoroughly.

2. Put on mask and laboratory gown.

15
3. Prepare the materials.

4. Insert the copper wire into the lemon, do it to the rest.

5. Prepare the 2 cm zinc-coated nail, insert it into the lemon.

16
6. Get the alligator clip; connect the copper wire to zinc-coated nail by it. Do it to all
the lemons.

7. Finish product.

Description:

 Slightly lights up.

 It only lasted to 50 minutes.
 The light is dim.

17
 Chapter 4

Results

Table 1: results for number of lemons

Pre-test Number of Lemon Observation

O1 1 piece 110 grams of lemon The one lemon was not

able to light up the bulb.

O2 2 pieces 110 grams of The two lemons were not

lemon able to light the bulb up.

O3 3 pieces of 110 grams of The three lemons were not

lemon able light the bulb up.

O4 4 pieces 110 grams of The four lemon slightly able

lemon the bulb to light up.

The table above shows the amount of lemons needed to light up a bulb. As the
table indicates, four (4) lemons are able to light up the bulb, while three (3) lemons, two
(2) lemons, and one (1) lemon did not have enough power to light up the bulb.

Table 2: results for cathode/negative

Pre-test Kind of cathode/negative Observation

O1 Galvanized zinc-coated It did not able to light the

nail bulb up

O2 Framing nail It did not able to light the

bulb up.

18
 O3 Ordinary zinc-coated nail It slightly lights the bulb
up.

The table above shows the results for the cathode/negative. As the table
indicates, the galvanized zinc-coated nail and framing nail were not able to light up the
bulb, whereas the ordinary zinc-coated nail was able to slightly light up the bulb.

Table 3: results for amount of voltage every lemon will produce

Pre-test Number of Lemons Voltage produced

O1 One piece 110 grams of 0.8 volts

lemon

O2 Two pieces 110grams of 1.6 volts

lemon

Three pieces of 110 grams 2.6 volts

O3
of lemon

O4 Four pieces of 110 grams 3 volts

of lemon

The table shows amount of voltage every lemon will produce. As the table
indicates one (1) lemon produced 0.8 volts, two (2) lemons produce 1.6 volts, three (3)
lemons produced 2.6 volts, and four (4) lemons produced 3 volts.

19
Table 4: results for squeezed and not squeezed

Pre-test Lemon Observation

O1 Squeezed The bulb does not light up.

O2 Not squeezed The bulb light up.

The table above shows the results for squeezed and not squeezed lemon. As the
table indicates squeezed lemon does not light the bulb up, and not squeezed lemons
lights the bulb up.

Table 5: results size of (copper wire) anode/positive

Pre-test Size Observation

O1 5 cm It slightly lights up the

bulb.

O2 10 cm It slightly lights up the bulb

O3 15 cm It slightly lights up the bulb

The table above shows the results for the size of (copper wire) anode/positive.
As the table indicates 5 cm anode slightly lights the bulb up, 10 cm anode also slightly
lights the bulb up, and 15 cm anode slightly lights the bulb up, too.

20
 Chapter 5

Summary

Lemon batteries are a type of experimental battery that uses lemons, or other
acidic fruits, to generate electricity. This type of battery is often used in educational
settings to teach students about the principles of electricity and the chemical reactions
that occur in batteries. Lemon batteries work by inserting two different metals, such as
copper and zinc, into a lemon. The metals react with the acid in the lemon, creating a
flow of electrons that can be harnessed to power small devices.

Research has shown that lemon batteries have the potential to be used as a
renewable energy source for small-scale applications. While lemon batteries are not as
efficient as traditional batteries, they are relatively inexpensive and can be easily
constructed using household materials. This makes them a viable option for powering
small devices in areas where traditional sources of electricity are not available.
Additionally, the use of lemon batteries could potentially reduce the environmental
impact of traditional batteries, which often contain toxic chemicals and are difficult to
dispose of. Overall, lemon batteries represent a promising area of research for the
development of sustainable and environmentally-friendly energy sources.

Conclusion

Therefore, the researcher concluded that lemon batteries can be a viable source
of electricity and can be used to power small bulb. This also shown that the acidity level
of the lemon affects the voltage output of the battery, with higher acidity resulting in a
higher voltage output, as of the results indicates one lemon can produce 0.8 volts, two
lemons can produce 1.6 volts, three lemons can produce 2.6 volts, four lemons can
produce 3 volts. This research can benefit those people in rural areas where electricity
is high on demand; this can be an alternative source of energy. Lastly, the study shows

21
that there are an advantages and disadvantages of using lemon batteries such as; its
limited power output; short lifespan; its convenience; and easy to build.

Recommendation

This product is strongly recommended for people in rural areas and slums where
electricity in high in demand and very expensive for them to buy. This product is also
recommended in times of unexpected phenomenon such as typhoon as what happened
to Cebu on 2022 when super typhoon Oddete hits the Philippines which caused a
widespread power outage affecting more than 3 million families, making it difficult for
power supply to resume at full tilt. As for the used lemons, it is recommended to have it
as a stain removal for clothes and other surfaces.

22
 Bibliography

 https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/School_Science/lemon_battery
 https://kidsactivitiesblog.com?28028?lemon-battery/
 https://rekayasmesin.ub.as.id/index/rm/article/view/653/
 https://consensus.app/results-showed-addition-activated-carbon-accelerate-
amirddin/8ea0e0d6bb5051
 https://www.scienceworld.ca/resource/lemon-battery/#:~:text=The%20citric
%20acid%20of%20the%20lemon%20reacts%20with%20the%20zinc,what
%20lights%20up%20the%20bulb.
 https://www.britannica.com/science/copper
 https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/element/Zinc
 https://simplyhealthyvegan.com/does-zinc-react-with-acid-in-fruit-juice/
#:~:text=The%20citric%20acid%20of%20lemon,hydroxystearate%20and
%20sodium%20hydrogen%20gas
 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6630225/#:~:text=For
%20instance%2C%20CuO%20can%20be,the%20dissolution%20of%20Cu
%20NPs.
 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/
S1018364716303032#:~:text=Three%20important%20chemicals%20in
%20lemon,et%20al.%2C%202006).
 https://www.myrecipes.com/how-to/how-to-store-lemons#:~:text=How%20long
%20lemons%20last%20depends,fresh%20for%20about%20one%20month.
 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lemon_battery
 https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/adverseselection.asp
 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lemon_battery
 https://www.scienceworld.ca/resource/lemon-battery/#:~:text=The%20citric
%20acid%20of%20the%20lemon%20reacts%20with%20the%20zinc,what
%20lights%20up%20the%20bulb.

23