Densities and compositions of pennies

CHED 502

Dana C Haagenson, dana.haagenson@uwc.edu, Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Marshfield/Wood County, 2000 W 5th St, Marshfield, WI 54449
A density experiment was developed that requires students to do more than measure masses and volumes. Students prepare a calibration curve of the percent copper versus density by determining the densities of copper, zinc, and two mixtures of the two metals. The calibration curve is used to calculate the percentages of copper and zinc in pre-1982 and 1983-present pennies. The experimental procedure and results will be discussed as well as topics for post-lab discussion.
 

General Papers
1:00 PM-4:05 PM, Thursday, August 23, 2007 Seaport -- Plaza A, Oral

Division of Chemical Education

The 234th ACS National Meeting, Boston, MA, August 19-23, 2007