Alessandro Volta

Alessandro Volta was born in Italy in 1745. He loved to study electricity. In 1800, he built the first battery that could make steady electric power. His work helped change the world. The word 'volt' is named after him.

Early Life

Volta was born in a town called Como in Italy. As a boy, he was curious about how things worked. He became a science teacher when he grew up. He spent many hours doing experiments. He loved learning about electricity most of all.

The First Battery

Volta stacked disks of zinc and copper with wet cloth in between. This stack made electricity flow. People called it the 'voltaic pile.' It was the first battery ever made. His invention let other scientists do new experiments with power.

Fun Facts

• The unit 'volt' used to measure electricity is named after him.
• He showed his battery to the famous leader Napoleon.
• He also discovered a gas called methane.

Did You Know?

Every time you put a battery in a toy, you can thank Alessandro Volta. His idea started it all.