How to Make Zinc Sulphate
Zinc sulfate (also sulphate) is a colorless ionic compound used in the manufacture of rayon and fertilizers. It is sometimes used as a moss killer, although it should never be applied indiscriminately since it poses a threat to the environment and especially to aquatic organisms. It is possible to produce zinc sulfate either with zinc and sulfuric acid or with zinc and copper sulfate. Please note that sulfuric acid is a dangerous chemical that can cause serious harm if used improperly. You should only attempt this procedure in a lab with appropriate safety equipment.
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Things You'll Need
- Dilute sulfuric acid (available from some science supply stores)
- Granulated zinc (also available from some science supply stores)
- Beaker
- Fume hood
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
- Lab coat
- Measuring cylinder
Instructions
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1
Put on safety goggles, gloves and lab coat. From this point, you should operate under a fume hood for safety.
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2
Drop a few pieces of granulated zinc into a beaker.
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3
Measure out 15 milliliters of dilute sulfuric acid using the measuring cylinder; then pour it onto the zinc in the beaker.
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Watch the reaction. The sulfuric acid solution should bubble as hydrogen gas is released. The reaction is fairly slow, so it may take some minutes to complete. You will know it is more or less complete once bubbles cease to form. At that point, you will have a solution of zinc sulfate and sulfuric acid.
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Tips & Warnings
You can also produce zinc sulfate using copper sulfate and zinc. For more detailed instructions on how to do so, see the Resources.
Sulfuric acid is a highly-reactive chemical and a strong skin and eye irritant. Never drink solutions containing sulfuric acid; do not permit sulfuric acid to come in contact with your skin, eyes or face. If you do spill it on yourself or accidentally ingest it, seek immediate medical attention.
This procedure releases a small amount of flammable, potentially-explosive hydrogen gas. Always perform this experiment under a fume hood; never attempt it without appropriate safety equipment and supervision.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit zinced screws image by amlet from Fotolia.com
