Oxford electric bell mystery: 184 years of nonstop ringing
The Electric Bell of Oxford has worked continuously for 184 years, since 1840. The secret to its longevity lies in its unique battery.
18 July 2024 11:59
The Oxford Electric Bell, located in the Clarendon Laboratory at the University of Oxford, has been ringing nonstop for over 184 years. It is one of the longest-running scientific experiments in the world. This mechanism emits delicate sounds that have amazed scientists with their extraordinary durability. As reported by IFLScience, the secret to the bell's long-lasting performance lies in its remarkable battery, whose exact functioning remains somewhat unclear.
The mystery of the extraordinary battery remains unresolved
This bell was purchased by Professor Robert Walker from the University of Oxford and is powered by "dry piles" - a prototype of an early battery. It has continued to power the mechanism since 1840. Although the exact composition of the battery is a mystery, it is suspected to be coated in sulphur, giving it a candle-like appearance.
Scientists have theories about how the battery works, but the inability to access its interior prevents their confirmation. In an interview with the BBC, Dr Robert Taylor points out the bell's deficient energy consumption, which, combined with minimal energy losses due to air resistance, might explain its longevity.
Will the Oxford Electric Bell stop ringing soon?
Despite its extraordinary durability, the bell may soon stop working. This is based on observations indicating that the ringing rate has significantly slowed over the past four decades. According to Taylor, the battery may last another 5-10 years. Every battery will eventually run out, marking the end of this fascinating experiment that has intrigued scientists for years and left many questions unanswered.
Will batteries that last for years appear soon?
The Chinese company Betavolt Technology has developed a prototype of a miniature atomic battery that has the potential to revolutionise the power supply of electronic devices. Betavolt Technology focuses on a betavoltaic battery that uses a diamond semiconductor and a nickel isotope. This innovative battery can operate in extreme temperatures and theoretically not discharge for 50 years.
The BV100 battery prototype is in the development phase, but Betavolt Technology plans to introduce 1 W batteries to the market by 2025. Their idea is that users could connect them, powering modern devices without recharging them. This could entirely change the way we use mobile and utility technologies.
