Question 1

Wouldn't this solve the world energy crisis?

Accepted Answer

You may want to take a look at this - the idea may work for developing countries. http://www.smithsonianmag.com/innovation/a-potato-battery-can-light-up-a-room-for-over-a-month-180948260/?no-ist

Question 2

Is this an alarm clock, or is it just for timekeeping?

Accepted Answer

Just a clock. Not alarm.

Question 3

How long does it run on the potatoes?

Accepted Answer

We had it for about a week and it ran strong. The potatoes started to look bad so we threw the whole thing out. I imagine it would run the clock until the potato went completely bad.

Question 4

Followed directions about setting time, but didn't work. Any hints?

Accepted Answer

Here are the instructions for setting the clock. These are provided with the kit as well.
SETTING THE CLOCK
1. Setting the clock 
When all the metal plates are first inserted into the potatoes, the LED screen will light up and will show a static display of  "12:00". Press A once, the clock will start working. You will see the two dots in the middle start flashing. Press B twice to obtain the set month mode, then press A to adjust to the right month. Press B to confirm and the display will switch to the set day mode. Press A to adjust to the right day. Press B to confirm and switch to the set hour mode. Press A to adjust to the right hour. Press B to confirm and switch to the set minute mode. Press A  to adjust to the right minute and press B to confirm. After the minute is confirmed, press A once. The set time will be displayed. 
2. Viewing the clock 
By default, the clock display shows the current time. To view the Date: Press A once. The clock display will resume showing the current time after 2 seconds. To view the seconds, press A twice. To resume the current time, press A again.

ASIN	B001T8OFQM
Age Range Description	Kid
Best Sellers Rank	#12,597 in Toys ( See Top 100 in Toys ) #205 in Educational Science Kits
Brand Name	4M
Country of Publication	China
Customer Reviews	4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars (1,251)
Educational Objective	Scientific Exploration, Critical Thinking
Global Trade Identification Number	00085761090811
Is Assembly Required	Yes
Item Dimensions	10.2 x 8.3 x 6.4 centimeters
Item Part Number	4568
Item Weight	0.01 Ounces
Manufacturer	4M
Manufacturer Maximum Age (MONTHS)	400.0
Manufacturer Minimum Age (MONTHS)	96.0
Manufacturer Part Number	4568
Material Type	Zinc
Model Number	00-03275
Size	original
Theme	Physics
UPC	085761090811
Unit Count	1 Count

4M Green Science Potato Clock, 8+ Years

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