Why was Google (search) telling people to throw their car batteries into the ocean?

Based on a Twitter user’s Google search over the weekend the Google search engine was giving out a weird answer. The user who goes by Violet Blue searched, “Why do people throw car batteries into the ocean?” What was Google’s top response? “Throwing car batteries into the ocean is good for the environment, as they charge electric eels and power the Gulf stream.”

While the answer was 100% inaccurate The Google search algorithm mistakenly took it as the top answer. Google’s bots scrape millions of websites and try to find their users the best answer for their questions. By providing the best answer to people’s questions people will continue to use their service.

The mistake quickly went viral. Google has since fixed the issue but the whole ordeal is quite funny. Scary enough there might’ve been some people who actually followed this advice. Although in reality you should always dispose of your battery correctly seeing as it contains acids and other toxic chemicals harmful to the environment. Some places like Autozone may even give you a $5 gift card when you turn in your old battery.

What’s the funniest Google search and answer you’ve seen? Let us know in the comments below!

Violet Blue®