How to Find Oxygen in Water
Water forms when atoms of oxygen bond with atoms of hydrogen. The formula for water, H2O, indicates that a molecule of water contains two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. The process of electrolysis, passing an electric current through water, breaks the bonds between the atoms and releases both oxygen and hydrogen as gases.
Using electrolysis to find oxygen in water requires only a basic understanding of electronics and no previous knowledge of chemistry. Anyone with the ability to follow simple instructions can split water into its basic components.
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Things You'll Need
- Glass jar
- 9 to 12-volt battery
- Battery (9 or 12-volts)
- Washing soda
- Teaspoon
- 2 low-voltage wires about 3 feet long
- Battery clips
- Sticking tape
- Large ceramic or plastic bowl
Instructions
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1
Pour water into the bowl, to a depth sufficient to cover the jar when placed in the bottom of the bowl. Add a teaspoon of washing soda or vinegar to the water and mix it thoroughly.
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2
Remove the insulation from both ends of each wire, exposing about an inch of wire. Rest the wires over the edge of the bowl so one end of each wire is positioned near the bottom of the water in the center of the bowl. Bend the wires to point vertically. Secure the wires to the edge of the bowl using sticking tape.
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3
Place the glass jar in the bowl, submerge it below the surface and allow all the air to escape. Invert the jar over one of the wires, ensuring that the jar stays below the surface. Ensure that the jar completely covers the bare wire and contains no trapped air.
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4
Connect the wire covered by the jar to the positive terminal of the battery, using battery clips if necessary. Connect the other wire to the negative terminal, again using battery clips if necessary. Bubbles will form on the submerged ends of both wires, with oxygen collecting in the jar while hydrogen escapes into the atmosphere from the negative wire.
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Tips & Warnings
To collect hydrogen, place a similar glass jar over the negative electrode in the water.
Attach copper sheet or carbon rods to the end of the wire to increase the surface area and produce more bubbles of oxygen.
Do not use more than 12-volts. Higher voltages may be dangerous, especially when associated with water.
Never use a low-voltage supply from a mains transformer. If water were to enter the transformer, a life threatening electrical shock could result.
Oxygen aids combustion; Do not collect large quantities and allow the gas into contact with a naked flame or ember.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
