Students write and memorize redox reactions repeatedly.
But, now they can see the power of oxidation and reduction in this riotous reaction between aluminum foil and copper(II) chloride.
The reaction starts immediately and results in a frothing reaction that produces a less colorful solution, flaky copper metal, and an abundance of heat. When the students ask you to repeat the demonstration, all you have left is copper(II) sulfate which should also work according to the chemical equations.
The discrepant event that occurs when this reaction does not occur is a wonderful teaching moment on the crucial role of coatings, catalysts, and "spectator" ions.
Includes enough materials to perform the demonstration five times.
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