Leaching Copper II
Leaching Copper II
In this experiment, instead of using copper ore and acid to produce the pregnant solution, we will use copper (II) chloride (cupric chloride) to create an artificial pregnant solution. This method is much faster then the first method, doesn't need an acid solution, will produce the same results but doesn't give the student the experience of producing copper from rocks. If possible, both experiments should be done at the same time.
Materials:
Procedures:
Place a 1/4 cup of water (temperature of the water does not matter) in the pyrex container and add to it 1/4 teaspoon of copper (II) chloride. Mix the materials until all of the copper (II) chloride has dissolved (a few seconds). This solution is many times more concentrated than the solution made in Copper Leaching I.
Next place a piece of aluminum wire or foil in the solution. There should be an immediate reaction, with the aluminum going into solution and the copper replacing it. What has happened to the wire/foil. Describe what has happened.
Other materials can be used such as aluminum or steel screen, steel wool, etc. with the copper replacing each material. The copper will replace the basic pattern of the materials being used. Experiment with a number of metals to see which one will dissolve in the solution and the rates they dissolve.
CAUTION: One is always tempted to use a gold, silver or platinum ring, other jewelry or silverware in this experiment since following the metal activity series they will not react in the copper solution. However, one must remember these items are not pure gold, silver or platinum and may contain other metals that will dissolve away!!!
A nail or even the steel wool can be left in the solution for several days and changes observed. Has the solution changed color, why?
Geology
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