Chemistry Challenge

Last Monday, our enthusiastic Y10 chemists applied their chemical knowledge to solve a tricky problem: how can the blue colour from a solution of copper sulfate be removed? They initially used their notes, the internet and our keen Y12 scientist Roberto to come up with three different methods they could use to solve this chemical challenge. They had to remove the copper in the first method, produce a black solid in the second and a white solid in the third method.  

The colour of copper sulfate stems from the chemistry and physics of its composition: when copper sulfate dissolves in water, the copper(II) ions form a complex with water. Each copper(II) ion is surrounded by six molecules of water. The complex absorbs red light but transmits blue light, causing the solution to appear blue.  

This activity was a fantastic way to reinforce their practical and critical thinking skills. They were able to use experiments such as electrolysis and displacement reactions in a different context. They will be learning about complex ions in more detail should they choose to study A-level Chemistry in the future.