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One of electrolysis uses is purifying metals. Coins are metals, thus can be purified by electrolysis,
Steps
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1Gather the things that are needed. These are listed under "Things You'll Need".
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2Connect four AA batteries in series to form a 6-volt DC power source. In 'series' means connecting all four batteries as if in a line, positive to negative each, so that the beginning of the line of batteries is negative on one end and positive on the other end.Advertisement
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3One alligator clip will be positive (anode) and the other will be negative (cathode). Test it by putting the coin on one clip. If it bubbles, put it on the other clip (the anode).
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4Clip the nail onto the other clip (the cathode).
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5Hold the two alligator clips in the water.
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6The water should get dirty.
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7After few minutes, disconnect the batteries.
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8Unclip the nail and coin.
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9Pour off the water.
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10Deactivate the coin by rubbing it with water gently.
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11Wipe the coin dry lightly with a piece of tissue paper.
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12Finished.
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Community Q&A
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QuestionHow do I know if it bubbles?
Community AnswerThis article is totally wrong. First of all, the coin would be placed on the negative terminal. Secondly, it is the coin and its terminal that should be bubbling in the solution. Thirdly, the article mentions nothing about preparing a proper electrolyte solution with salt or baking soda to facilitate proper reaction.
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Warnings
- Don't do this if the old coins have ANY potential value, as this will decrease their value significantly. Any potentially valuable coins should not even be handled with your bare hands. Don gloves and put them in a plastic coin envelopes and get them appraised. The same goes for all antiques -don't clean, paint or polish anything that may have value before getting them appraised.⧼thumbs_response⧽
- Do not use copper; it will stick to the coin.⧼thumbs_response⧽
- Do not use stainless steel as it will create toxic chromates.⧼thumbs_response⧽
- Do not get charged by the battery.⧼thumbs_response⧽
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Things You'll Need
- 2 alligator clips
- a coin (to test with)
- 4 AA batteries
- salt or baking soda
- water
- container
- something to dry the coin with
About This Article
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