DEPENDENCE OF ELECTRIC POTENTIAL OF TREES FROM ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Abstract

In this paper we studied the effect of environmental conditions (light, temperature) on the efficiency of electric power generation by galvanic element formed of a pair of metal electrodes placed in the tree and the soil. Electrodes made from iron, stainless steel and copper. Studied trees of different ages Moscow and Kaluga region: birch, linden, oak, larch, pine, spruce. The potential difference between the wood and soil varied between 0.1 and 0.7 V, depending on the wood species and the electrode material. Maximum efficiency of electricity generation in the summer time was achieved at midday on deciduous trees by using electrodes made of iron (wood) and copper (soil). Made the conclusion that the sunlight accelerate the kinetics of redox reactions in the electrolyte xylem with a metal electrode. Higher values of the potential difference in deciduous trees compared to conifers associated with higher values of pH and the dielectric constant in the sap than in turpentine. The results obtained are useful for the construction of electric power trees batteries, by which can be recharged the low power electronic devices.