Chemical Reactions II: Oxidation/Reduction
Oxidation and reduction reactions are demonstrated using one or more of the following common reactions involving copper in zinc chloride, zinc in copper sulfate, and copper in silver nitrate. |
Observation of the oxidation of zinc metal by hydrochloric acid to form hydrogen gas and zinc chloride. |
A flask containing a colorless solution is shaken and the solution turns blue. Upon standing the solution becomes colorless again. More shaking regenerates the color. |
A piece of copper foil is suspended above a container containing acetone. The copper wire will continue to glow red hot suspended above the liquid. |
Oxidation of sugar or a Gummi bear by potassium chlorate. This demonstration illustrates the amount of energy available in carbohydrates, such as sugar and candy. |
When a ball of aluminum foil is placed in a copper solution with chloride ions, the copper ions are reduced to copper metal and a coating of copper is seen on the surface of the aluminum. |
Primary and secondary alcohols are oxidized by K2Cr2O7 to carboxylic acids and ketones respectively. The oxidation is physically observed by the change in color upon reduction of Cr6+ (orange) to Cr3+ (blue). |
Video demonstrations of thermite reaction. |
Two balloons, one filled with H2 and the other with He are ignited with a hot pin or lit splint, with different results. |
A combustion reaction is demonstrated by the burning of magnesium in air, emitting a brilliant light and intense heat. |
A piece of tarnished silver is cleaned using an aqueous solution of baking soda, salt, and aluminum foil. |