Vinegar Electrolysis: Dark Brown Material + Blue Solution

In summary, the conversation discusses the results of a vinegar electrolysis experiment using copper electrodes and a 9v adaptor. The (-) electrode produced dark brown material and a blue solution was observed. The participants question whether the blue solution could be copper hydroxide or copper acetate, and inquire about the exact formula for copper aquo complex. It is clarified that aquo complex is different from colloid and the presence of hydroxide depends on vinegar concentration and complex stability constants.
  • #1
MadM
9
0
I tried vinegar electrolysis using 2 copper electrodes and 9v adaptor
it gave dark brown material on the (-) electrode
blue solution
what is the blue solution? since i used white vinegar (which contains water) could it be copper hydroxide?or copper acetate?
what is the brown material on the cathode?
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
  • #2
Blue is most likely copper aqua complex.
 
  • #3
? what is this exactly? is there an exact formula of it?
 
  • #5
Thanks for this infos
But why is it aquo? why not acetate or hydroxide ? how can i make sure it is aquo and not another copper compound??
 
  • #6
And another thing
Is this aquo the same thing as colloid?
 
Last edited:
  • #7
MadM said:
But why is it aquo? why not acetate or hydroxide ? how can i make sure it is aquo and not another copper compound??

Hydroxide is a solid. Some copper acetate complex is possible, but how much - depends on the vinegar concentration and complex stability constants.

MadM said:
Is this aquo the same thing as colloid?

No. Hydroxide is a solid, aquo complex is a dissolved cation (whatever the counter ion is).
 
  • Like
Likes 1 person

1. What is vinegar electrolysis?

Vinegar electrolysis is a chemical reaction that occurs when vinegar, which is an acid, is subjected to an electrical current. This causes the vinegar to break down into smaller molecules, resulting in the formation of new substances.

2. What is the dark brown material that forms during vinegar electrolysis?

The dark brown material that forms during vinegar electrolysis is likely a result of the vinegar breaking down and oxidizing. This can happen when the vinegar reacts with the oxygen in the air, forming a dark brown precipitate.

3. What is the blue solution that is produced during vinegar electrolysis?

The blue solution is most likely a result of the electrolysis process itself. When electricity is passed through a solution, it can cause the formation of new substances, which can result in a change in color.

4. What are the potential uses of vinegar electrolysis?

Vinegar electrolysis has potential uses in various industries, such as in the production of hydrogen gas, which can be used as an alternative fuel source. It can also be used in the production of certain chemicals and in wastewater treatment.

5. Is vinegar electrolysis safe to do at home?

Vinegar electrolysis can be done safely at home, but it is important to take proper precautions. This includes using a low voltage power source and wearing protective gear, such as gloves and goggles. It is also important to dispose of any leftover materials properly.

Similar threads

Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Chemistry
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
57
Views
7K
Replies
5
Views
963
  • Chemistry
Replies
5
Views
914
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
867
Replies
1
Views
3K
Back
Top