Electrochemistry and Redox Reactions- Silver Plating

Silver Plating

Description: Silver is electroplated on to copper.

Source: Shakhashiri, B.Z.  Chemical Demonstrations: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry

Year: 1991   Vol: 4   Page: 136

Keywords: Silver, Copper, Electroplate, Overpotential

Rating:

Hazard: Medium

  • Acute toxicity hazard – dermal, oral, inhalation
  • Specific organ toxicity – thyroid
  • Oxidizer
  • Skin corrosion hazard
  • Serious eye damage
  • Acute aquatic toxicity hazard
  • Electrocution  hazard

Effectiveness: Good

  • Good connection from demo to course material
  • Clear contrast between behavior of systems
  • Time to results is medium
  • Mild effects are seen by audience
  • Observable with guidance

Difficulty: Medium

  • Some sequential manipulations
  • Use of scientific equipment
  • Polarity dependent
  • Procedures with intermediate steps to results
  • Procedures with specific time requirements

Safety Precautions:

  • Eye protection required
  • Gloves required
  • Use of UL approved three-prong plug and outlet required
  • Absorbent materials on hand
  • Perform in a well-ventilated area
  • Avoid exposure to mists, droplets or vapors
  • Handle live power supply and electrodes with care
  • Prevent release of reagents to the environment

 

Class: Electrochemistry,  Redox Reactions

Division: General, Analytical Chemistry