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voltaic pile

A voltaic pile, an early electrochemical battery, is depicted with alternating layers of metallic discs and cardboard separators, showcasing its historical design.

The first electrochemical battery, assembled by Volta in 1800 from a stack of alternating zinc and copper discs separated by brine-soaked cardboard. It produced a steady electric current rather than the brief discharges previously available from friction machines and Leyden jars. Within months it was being used to electrolyse water and isolate new elements, launching the entire field of electrochemistry.

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