Electrochemistry Question, Galvanic/Daniel Cell

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around an electrochemistry experiment involving a galvanic cell setup using zinc and copper plates. Participants are exploring the nature of a black substance that forms on the zinc plate during the experiment, questioning its origin and the mechanisms involved in the electrochemical processes at play.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes a setup involving zinc and copper plates with filter paper soaked in respective sulfate solutions, noting a black substance forming on the zinc plate.
  • Another participant suggests that the black substance could be copper reduced on zinc, indicating that it may not necessarily be red initially.
  • A third participant questions the source of the copper, pointing out that the cellophane separates the cells and asks how copper could reduce and precipitate onto the zinc plate under these conditions.
  • A later reply asserts that if current is flowing, ions must be passing through the cellophane, implying that some form of ionic transfer is occurring despite the separation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the origin of the black substance and the feasibility of copper reduction occurring in the described setup. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives on the electrochemical processes involved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the specific mechanisms of ion transfer through the cellophane or the exact nature of the black substance, leaving these aspects open to interpretation.

mannioc3
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Using a very simple set up with high school kids,

Zinc Plate
*on*
Filter paper soaked in ZnSO4
*on*
cellophane
*on*
Filter paper soaked in CuSO4
*on*
Copper Plate
*in*
Petri Dish

Copper and zinc plate connected to a speaker. I know the process involved and the equations. Not using a salt bridge. After a while on the base of the Zinc plate there is a build up of a black substance and for the life of me i can't tell what it is.
Any ideas what it is?
 
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I won't be surprised if it is copper reduced on zinc. It doesn't have to be red, at least not initially.
 
Where does the copper come from?
The cells are separated by the cellophane... how would the copper reduce and percipitate UP onto the zinc plate? is this possible?
 
If there is current flowing, it means ions pass through the cellophane, there is no other way.
 

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