High School Resource

Striking it Rich with Chemistry

During this lab investigation, students will witness a chemical change as they create a brass alloy using a post-1982 penny, sodium hydroxide, and zinc metal. The penny will undergo a chemical change and turn from copper to silver and when exposed to heat, change to gold. The outcome will be a “Golden Penny”.

Related NY State Academic Standards: MST4.C.C.PS3.1, MST4.C.C.PS3.2, MST4.C.C.PS5.2 and more!

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