Because this is an oxidation experiment, you need a key ingredient-oxygen! Spread out your pennies on a paper towel liberally sprinkled with salt and just dampened with vinegar and your pennies will oxidize much faster.
How do you oxidize a penny?
When copper is exposed to oxygen, it forms molecules called copper oxide that make pennies look dirty. Pouring vinegar over the pennies helps break up this copper oxide and expose the pure copper on the penny. As the penny dries and is exposed to the air, a chemical reaction occurs and the penny turns green!
How do you tarnish a penny?
- Wash your pennies with Dawn and baking soda.
- Drain the soapy baking soda water, rinse the pennies off, and let them dry.
- Mix together equal parts of vinegar and salt, so that it coats all of the pennies.
- Let the pennies soak for 30 minutes.
- Drain out the mixture.
How do you lighten up a penny?
Copper oxide dissolves in a mixture of weak acid and table salt -and vinegar is an acid. You could also clean your pennies with salt and lemon juice or orange juice, because those juices are acids, too.
How can you change the color of a penny?
When a copper penny is zinc plated it will appear to change from its copper color to silver color. And by using sufficient heat , a zinc plated copper penny can be changed to a gold color. This version of Silver and Gold Pennies utilizes zinc sulfate as less caustic than sodium hydroxide and works as well.
How do you clean a penny with Coke?
Simply place one coin in a glass or tub and pour coke over the top , enough so that it is fully submerged in the liquid. Leave the coin to soak for about 5 minutes or so and then check on its condition. If you feel that it needs longer, you can soak it for up to 15 minutes.
Why do pennies get dull?
When oxygen binds with copper, they form a new molecule known as copper oxide. ... This is why most pennies you see look dirty or tarnished—it's not actually dirt but copper oxide that makes them look so dull.
Can vinegar damage coins?
A common ingredient in DIY eco-friendly cleaners, the acetic acid in white vinegar can help wear away the contamination on your coins. Soak your coins in a glass or other non-corrosive container for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight, and then wipe with a clean cloth or scrub gently with an old toothbrush.
Why do pennies turn green?
A penny is made of copper. The vinegar on the paper towel helps the copper in the penny easily react with the oxygen in the air to form a blue-green colored compound called malachite.
Can you clean pennies with toothpaste?
Don't use toothpaste – Toothpaste is extremely abrasive. It can make your coins appear shiny, but cause significant damage to the surface. ... Don't use vinegar and baking soda – When put together, these two common household items create a potent, fizzy mixture that can clean dirt from coins.
What cleans a penny better experiment?
Create a solution of vinegar and salt using one teaspoon of salt and 1/4 of a cup of vinegar. Mix until the salt is dissolved (it helps if the vinegar is a little warm). Add the pennies. Wait about 5 minutes, then remove the pennies from the solution.
Why do pennies not turn green?
Yes, pennies turning green is a representation of a chemical change. Pennies are largely made of copper, which means they oxidize just like many other metals. However, rather than rusting, pennies simply get covered in a coating of green that can be polished off. Turning a penny green does not eat holes into the penny .
How do you clean pennies without losing their value?
- In a jar, combine one cup vinegar (or lemon juice) and 1 tablespoon salt. ...
- Pour the solution into the plastic container. ...
- Add the coins in a single layer, so none of the coins are touching. ...
- When you remove the coins and wipe them with a cloth or paper towel, they should look shiny.
Can Coke dissolve a penny?
Theoretically, yes, it will dissolve a penny , if you left it in for YEARS, and kept replenishing the Coke with fresh Coke. ... PENNIES ARE MADE OF COPPER, WHICH WILL DISSOLVE IN THE PRESENCE OF ACID, ONE OF THE MAIN INGREDIENTS IN ALL SODA IS PHOSPHORIC ACID. THE pH of soda is quite low, due to the phosphoric acid content.
How much is a 1944 penny worth?
CoinTrackers.com has estimated the 1944 S Wheat Penny value at an average of 15 cents , one in certified mint state (MS+) could be worth $8.
What is the best way to clean your coins?
Take the coins out and sprinkle some baking soda over them ; then use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush them clean. Rinse them out thoroughly with hot water; using tongs or gloves to hold them to avoid burning your fingers. Place them on a soft, cotton towel and leave to air dry.
