What is the chemical reaction with copper?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the chemical interaction between copper, sodium chloride (NaCl), and water (H2O). Participants debate whether any reaction occurs when these substances are combined. The consensus is that no immediate reaction takes place, especially if the solution is not exposed to air. However, if the solution is in contact with air, oxidation of copper may occur over time, potentially leading to the formation of patina or verdigris. One user experimented by applying a 6V potential, resulting in oxidation of the copper wire and the release of an unidentified gas, which they initially suspected to be hydrogen (H2) from water electrolysis. They noted that the pH remained neutral. The conversation encourages further exploration of gas identification and the effects of copper discoloration.
oem7110
Messages
149
Reaction score
0
Copper + NaCl + H20 = >> ?
Does anyone have any suggestions on what chemical reaction will occur in above example?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
Why do you think there will be a reaction?

Please note: if it is a homework, you are breaking forum rules again.
 
Borek said:
Why do you think there will be a reaction?

Please note: if it is a homework, you are breaking forum rules again.

This is not a homework, but I would like to know this chemical reaction, that is all.
Does anyone have any suggestions?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions
 
Nothing will happen.
 
Dr_Morbius said:
Nothing will happen.

I am not talking about what happen is within 5 seconds, what happen is on the next 3 months?
Does anyone have any suggestions?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions
 
If the solution is not in contact with air, nothing will happen. If the solution is in contact with air, it will be not a reaction between copper, water and sodium chloride.
 
Borek said:
If the solution is not in contact with air, nothing will happen. If the solution is in contact with air, it will be not a reaction between copper, water and sodium chloride.

So what happen if the solution is in contact with air?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions
 
I actually tried this today, except I also applied approximately a 6V potential to it. I got oxidation of the copper wire I was using and a gas. I am not sure what the gas was. At first I thought it was H2 gas from the water being electrolyzed (which I was trying to do), but there was not enough gas coming out of the positive end for that to be it I do not think. I checked the pH and insofar as litmus paper is accurate, it had remained a neutral solution.
 
  • #10
epsaliba said:
I actually tried this today, except I also applied approximately a 6V potential to it. I got oxidation of the copper wire I was using and a gas. I am not sure what the gas was. At first I thought it was H2 gas from the water being electrolyzed (which I was trying to do), but there was not enough gas coming out of the positive end for that to be it I do not think. I checked the pH and insofar as litmus paper is accurate, it had remained a neutral solution.

It looks like you are beginning to answer questions yourself. How could you test for H2? What other possible gases could it be, if not H2? Did the copper discolor? Keep it up!
 
Back
Top