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A copper penny builds up a layer of corrosion on its outsides. Probably copper oxide. The cleaning just dissolves the outer corrosion and leaves a new outer layer of copper. CuO + HNO3 --> Cu(NO3)2 + H2O ... the copper nitrate is dissolved in the acid solution and leaves 'clean' copper behind.

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Q: What is the chemical reaction in cleaning a penny?
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Is cleaning a penny with vinegar and salt a physical or chemical change?

Cleaning a penny with vinegar and salt is a chemical change. The vinegar (acetic acid) reacts with the salt (sodium chloride) to form a chemical compound that removes the tarnish on the copper surface of the penny. This reaction changes the composition of the penny's surface, making it appear shiny and clean.


Is turning a penny gold a chemical or physical reaction?

Turning a penny gold is a physical reaction rather than a chemical reaction. This process involves coating the penny with a layer of gold, which changes its appearance but does not alter the chemical composition of the penny itself.


Is a rusty penny an example of a chemical reaction true or false?

True. The formation of rust on a penny is an example of a chemical reaction. When the copper in the penny reacts with oxygen in the air to form copper oxide, it results in the characteristic brown color of rust.


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Cleaning involve chemical reactions but cleaning is possible also by dissolution of contaminants - a physical process.


Is dissolution of a copper penny in nitric acid a chemical reaction?

Yes, the dissolution of a copper penny in nitric acid is a chemical reaction. The nitric acid reacts with the copper in the penny to form copper nitrate and other byproducts.


Is cleaning a penny a chemical change or a physical change?

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Is putting a penny in lemon juice a physical or chemical change?

Putting a penny in lemon juice would cause a chemical change because the lemon juice reacts with the copper in the penny to create copper oxide, which changes the chemical composition of the penny.


Is cleaning a sink with Drano a chemical reaction?

Yes, cleaning a sink with Drano involves a chemical reaction. Drano contains chemicals that react with the clogs in the sink, breaking them down into smaller, soluble particles that can be washed away with water. This reaction helps to clear the blockage in the sink.


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Is salt and vinegar removing tarnish from a penny physical or a chemical change?

Removing tarnish from a penny with salt and vinegar is a chemical change. The reaction between the salt, vinegar, and tarnish on the penny results in the formation of new substances that remove the tarnish.


How cleaning copper tarnish off a penny relates to chemistry?

Cleaning copper tarnish off a penny relates to chemistry because the tarnish is a chemical reaction that occurs between the copper in the penny and substances in the environment, such as oxygen and sulfur. By using a chemical solution like vinegar or lemon juice, which contain acids that react with the tarnish, the chemical reaction can be reversed, restoring the penny's shine. This process demonstrates the principles of chemical reactions, oxidation, and corrosion.