Is There a Safer Alternative to Creating a Tree of Saturn with Lead Acetate?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the creation of a tree of Saturn using lead acetate and zinc, with a focus on the toxicity of lead acetate and the search for safer alternatives for this crystal formation process. Participants express concerns about safety and legality, as well as practical aspects of the experiment.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to create a tree of Saturn but is concerned about the toxicity of lead acetate and seeks safer alternatives.
  • Another participant suggests consulting the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for lead acetate to understand its toxicity better.
  • Some participants note that lead compounds can be handled safely with proper precautions, such as using gloves and protective gear, but caution about potential legal issues depending on local regulations.
  • A participant inquires about methods to store lead acetate outside of water to prevent it from reacting and turning white.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for safety precautions when handling lead acetate, but there is no consensus on a safer alternative or the best method for storage without reactivity.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the implications of lead acetate's toxicity or the legal considerations in their respective locations. The discussion lacks detailed information on alternative materials or methods for creating similar crystal formations.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in chemistry experiments, particularly those involving crystal formation, and those concerned about safety and legal implications of using toxic substances in their projects.

Stephenk53
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I wish to create a tree of saturn (crystal formation using lead acetate and zinc), however I have very little experience in chemistry and I know lead acetate is toxic but I do not know how toxic. I know how to make the tree but I want to know if I should or if there is a safer alternative that I can do that is similar to it.
 
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Google for "lead acetate msds" (Material Safety Data Sheet).

In general most lead compounds are quite safe as long as you follow standard safety procedures (glasses, gloves, apron, don't touch with bare hands, don't inhale, don't eat). However, depending on where you live it is quite possible that is using it could be a legal nightmare.
 
Alright, I do have gloves and such, as far as legality I will check
 
Alright, do you know how I could store it outside of the water without it reacting and turning white
 

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