Grade 4 Science Experiment 1 - "The Magic of Copper Oxidation"
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Purpose:
The purpose of this science fair project is to create a verdigris finish on a piece of copper. The word "Verdigris" refers to the "green of Greece". Verdigris is a natural green finish that appears on copper through copper oxidation. Oxidations causes many metals to rust. Whereas, copper oxidation causes the copper to turn green or Verdigris. The green finish on the copper acts a guard against acids and oils that may eat away at the copper metal.
In this science fair project, you will oxidative copper using ammonia. This process will create a verdigris finish on your copper object.
Note: Adult supervision is necessary for this science fair project.
Hypothesis:
Copper will react with the environment and an ammonia and copper-carbonate solution causing oxidation known as "verdigris".
Variables:
- Concentration of the ammonia and copper-carbonate solution mixture
- Concentration of water sprayed on the copper object
- Number of times the copper object is painted with the ammonia and copper-carbonate solution mixture
Materials Needed:
- Copper object such as pennies, a copper cup, or copper pieces
- Ammonia that you use in your home
- Copper-Carbonate solution - ask your science teacher for this solution
- Measuring cup
- Brass cleaner
- Water bottle that has a sprayer
- Large spoon
- Plastic bucket
- Small paintbrush
- Paper towels
- Newspapers
- Paper
- Pencil
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