A construção de pilhas de baixo custo como estratégia facilitadora para o ensino de eletroquímica

Abstract

This study was based on the use of experiments with electrochemical cells, built with low-cost materials, in chemistry teaching. Due to the high complexity of electrochemistry in high school, the objective of the proposal was to facilitate the assimilation of this branch of chemistry, especially the galvanic processes common in cells and batteries, through experiments that included the clarification of the theory. The methodology involved, in addition to theoretical classes, which served as a basis for the experiments, the construction of Alessandro Volta and Daniell cells, adapted with alternative materials, and the use of these devices to promote the functioning of electronics, in addition to the understanding of the functioning of conventional cells and batteries. The study was carried out in a public high school, located in Fortaleza, in three classes of the second year of high school, with a total of 49 students. Data collection was carried out through the use of two questionnaires, one that preceded the theoretical class, and another that followed the end of the entire intervention, after the experimental class. Furthermore, after the quantitative and qualitative analysis of the responses given to the initial and final questionnaire, it was found that this work promoted a notable assimilation of the essential concepts of this branch of chemistry and allowed students to understand the content through the complementarity between theory and practice. Finally, it was concluded that the use of experiments, even if adapted, in the teaching of chemistry is a considerably effective strategy to promote more solid learning and engage students in the study of this science.