Chromic acid cell

The main elements of the cell are: The cell is made in two forms - the single-fluid type, attributed to Poggendorff and the two-fluid type, attributed to Fuller.

The mixture would dissolve the zinc plate even when the cell is not in use, so there is a mechanism for lifting the zinc plate out of the liquid and storing it in the neck of the bottle.

The cell is set up in a glass, or glazed earthenware, pot.

This contained the chromic acid solution, the carbon plate and a porous pot.

Inside the porous pot is dilute sulfuric acid, the zinc rod, and a small quantity of mercury.