Quantcast
issue
Read articles, including Science News stories written for ages 9-14, on the SNK website.
FOR KIDS: Your head’s battery
Fluids in the inner ear can actually power an electronic device, such as an implant
A+ A- Text Size

Fluids in the inner ear can actually power an electronic device, such as an implant

By Sid Perkins

Web edition: January 18, 2013

Enlarge
Scientists have designed a small electronic circuit (inside the two golden squares) to monitor and use the natural battery in an animal's ear.
Mercier et al. (2012), Nature Biotechnology

A natural powerhouse in the ear of guinea pigs can run a tiny electronic device, researchers show. Human ears contain that same structure, which operates like a battery. Doctors might one day use this system to power implants. Some might monitor an individual’s blood. Others could dispense medicines.

Visit the new Science News for Kids website and read the full story: Your head’s battery

Comment
Print Friendly and PDF

Follow Us