Copper + sulfuric acid + H2O = stink?

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In summary, the conversation is about putting copper bits into concentrated sulfuric acid and experiencing a reaction where the copper became shiny and clean looking. The acid was then poured off and water was added, causing the copper to bubble and emit a rotten egg smell. The question is raised about whether this is hydrogen sulfide or sulfur dioxide and what chemical reactions occurred. A search is suggested to be done on the rotten egg smell and it is suggested that elevated temperatures may be needed for the acid to be reduced by the copper.
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Mustard Tiger
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I put some copper bits into concentrated sulfuric acid. Nothing much happened other than it got shiny and clean looking. So I poured off the acid and then put water on the copper to rinse off the remaining acid, and the copper started bubbling and made a nasty rotten egg smell. Is that hydrogen sulfide or sulfur dioxide or what? What chemical reactions happened here?
 
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Do a search on rotten egg smell.
 
  • #3
Mustard Tiger said:
Is that hydrogen sulfide

Yes.

What chemical reactions happened here?

Most likely the copper surface was covered with traces of sulfide earlier. While technically it is possible for the sulfuric to be reduced by copper, I don't think it will go that far.
 
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I think elevated temperatures are needed for sulfuric acid to be reduced to sulfur oxides by copper. That kind of heating can be caused by sudden dilution of the acid, in principle.
 

What happens when copper reacts with sulfuric acid and H2O?

When copper is added to sulfuric acid and water, a chemical reaction occurs. The copper reacts with the sulfuric acid to form copper sulfate and release hydrogen gas. This reaction also produces a foul odor, which is why it is commonly referred to as "stink".

Why does the reaction between copper and sulfuric acid produce a stinky odor?

The stinky odor produced during the reaction between copper and sulfuric acid is due to the release of hydrogen gas. Hydrogen gas has a distinct rotten egg smell, which is very unpleasant.

Is the stinky odor produced during this reaction harmful?

While the stinky odor produced during the reaction between copper and sulfuric acid may be unpleasant, it is not harmful. However, it is important to handle sulfuric acid with caution as it is a corrosive substance.

Can this reaction be used to produce a stink bomb?

Yes, this reaction has been used in the past to create stink bombs. However, it is not recommended to try this at home as sulfuric acid is a dangerous substance and should only be handled by trained professionals.

Can the stinky odor produced during this reaction be removed?

Yes, the stinky odor produced during the reaction between copper and sulfuric acid can be removed by neutralizing the sulfuric acid with a base, such as baking soda. However, it is important to take proper safety precautions when handling sulfuric acid.

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