MAKING A COPPER SULFATE SALT

Today we are starting our 2nd scientific experiment. Our first ever experiment in chemistry, making a copper sulfate salt. (This was done 1-2 weeks ago)

MAKING A COPPER SULFATE SALT

Aim: To produce copper sulfate salt by reacting copper oxide with an acid

Equipment: Copper oxide powder, dilute sulfuric acid, measuring cylinder, 2x 100mL beakers, bunsen burner, tripod, gauze mat, funnel, filter paper, themometer, spatula, evaporating basin, stirring rod.

Method:

1. Add 20mL of sulfuric acid to a 100mL beaker. Heat to 70degrees. Turn off your bunsen.
2. Once heated, use a spatula to add pea sized portions of copper oxide. Stir for 30secs
3. Repeat step 2 until no more dissolved.
4. Fold filter paper and place in funnel. Place the funnel in the second beaker.
5. Make sure your first beaker is cool enough to hold and then pour it into the funnel. Gently swirl and allow to filter through.
6. Rinse the beaker and fill with 50mL of water and place on tripod. 
7. Place evaporating basin on top of beaker and pour some solution in.
8. Gently heat until the solution has reduced by half.
9. Take off heat and allow to cool.

Results:

We were aloud to touch the crystals I have no idea how to explain them besides saying that they were smooth to touch and the edges were incredibly sharp. We had to wash them down the sink a few minutes later since they can become a bit dangerous after some time. Feel free to leave a comment about anything evolving the experiment.

Link to pictures used in this post: https://sciencenotes.org/how-to-grow-blue-copper-sulfate-crystals/