Help with electroplating please

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    Electroplating
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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the electroplating process using a 9V battery, where a copper penny is connected to the negative terminal and a nickel to the positive terminal. After 20 minutes, copper deposits appear on the nickel, indicating successful electroplating. The phenomenon occurs due to electrolysis, where copper ions from the penny migrate through the water and deposit onto the nickel, despite initial assumptions about charge interactions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrolysis principles
  • Familiarity with basic electrical circuits
  • Knowledge of metal properties, specifically copper and nickel
  • Awareness of impurities in water and their effects on electroplating
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  • Research the electrolysis process in detail
  • Explore the effects of water impurities on electroplating
  • Learn about different electroplating techniques and materials
  • Investigate the role of voltage and current in electroplating efficiency
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This discussion is beneficial for hobbyists, electroplating enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamentals of electrolysis and metal deposition techniques.

aaronob
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help with electroplating please! :)

I have a copper penny attached to the negative terminal of a 9V battery. I have a nickel (made of the metal nickel) attached to the positive terminal. I put this circuit in water. After 20 minutes, I notice that the nickel has orange deposits on it which I believe are copper.

Why does this work? It doesn't make sense to me. I thought copper had a positive charge and would not be attracted to another positively charged object.


Thanks!

Aaron
 
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The copper could be corroding , and what impurities are in the water , And I assume electrolysis is going on , not really sure though.
 

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