Re: What metals would make the best electrod

Dear Chris:
Where's the fun in someone just giving you the answer.
For a question like this, the best way to find out is to experiment.
I'll give you some general ideas, and then let you find out for yourself. 
Can you think of some where you have seen an electrode?  Of what type of  
material was it made? This is your observation.  Next.  Is this the best 
possible conductor?  This is the question you have to answer. If you think 
there are some other possibilities besides say copper, then list them.  
These other possibilities are your hypotheses, which are your guesses as to 
what might be the answer.  These guesses shouldn't be stabs in the dark, 
however.  Consider these questions to help you make a good hypothesis.  
What makes a good conductor?  Does this material have those 
characteristics?  Which one of the several I've chosen for experimentation 
have more of that characteristic? Once you've come up with your hypothesis, 
it is time to test or experiment.  Get the samples of the materials you 
have thought of in your hypothesis.  You will need the following materials:
1) D.C. ampmeter, 2) samples of the metals you think will be good 
conductors, 3) two "D" cell batteries, 4) 3 Copper wire leads, 5) 
electrical tape, 6) the cardboard tube from the bath tissue. 
Tape the batteries together and place them in the tube.  Tape one wire lead 
onto the negative end of the battery.  Tape one wire lead onto the positive 
end of the battery, and connect the other end of the positive lead to the 
ampmeter. The third lead should be hooked up to the negative terminal of 
the ampmeter, the other end to hang free.
Now, place one of your samples on a wooden board and touch one end with the 
negative lead and the other end of the sample with the lead that is 
attached to the ampmeter.  Test your several samples in this way.  Which 
ever one give the highest reading, is the best conductor and the best 
electrode.
Have fun! and Happy Mardi Gras!
Robert L. Judge