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Science Lab Experiment: Electroplating


Demonstration: Electroplating

Object: To find out what happens when a copper metal strip is connected to the positive terminal of a dry cell, while a piece of tin is connected to the negative terminal and a solution of copper sulfate added.

Materials: copper metal, tin metal, copper sulfate solution CuSO4, dry cell battery, copper wire, beaker

Diagram:
electroplating


Method: The materials were set up as shown in the diagram, making certain that the copper metal was connected to the positive terminal of the battery.

Observations:After a few minutes, a reddish brown deposit formed on the surface of the tin.

Conclusions:The deposit was found to be copper. When the current of electricity passed through the copper sulfate, the solution broke down to form copper ions which were drawn to the negative tin. This process is called "electroplating".