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In this chemistry activity, learners explore the amount of copper in a new penny. Learners use toilet bowl cleaner to hollow out the interior of a penny with zinc inside. This experiment will demonstrate how chemical changes can separate matter. Learners can also discuss how zinc is cheaper than copper, in a lesson about economics.
- 10 to 30 minutes
- 1 to 7 days
- $1 - $5 per student
- Ages 11 - 18
- Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per student)
- Lots of pennies, 1983 or newer
- Beaker
- Liquid toilet bowl cleaner (must contain HCL) or 3M to 6M Hydrochloric acid solution or Muriatic acid or Vinegar
- Eye protection
- A rough surface (sidewalk, parking lot, metal file)
- Glass stirring rod
- Graduated cylinder
Subjects
-
Physical Sciences
-
Chemistry
- Chemical Reactions
- Acids and Bases
-
Structure and Properties of Matter
- Atomic Structure
- Elements and Periodic Table
-
Chemistry
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
-
The Scientific Process
Informal Categories
- Financial Literacy
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
- Muller, Eric
Rights:
- All rights reserved, Exploratorium, 1996