Extraction of copper from malachite

Here´s the second in a series of three “End of Year” challenges that I have used with Y10 chemistry groups over the years.

This one involves the extraction of copper from malachite, which the students will probably have met at KS3, but in this activity they are given a chance to develop their own ideas and apply extra knowledge and techniques they will have learnt since then.

The PowerPoint introduces the challenge and again refers to the difference between hazards and risks. Each group is given 5g of powdered copper carbonate, although there is no reason why you shouldn´t give them malachite itself, and a range of other reagents with at least one red herring! To decide which team wins the challenge there is a scoring system based on the purity, dryness, quantity etc of the copper produced - see the spreadsheet. Also included in this pack is a student requisition sheet and a technicians sheet.

As with Challenge (I), the Chemical Clock, sudents will need time to plan and trial their ideas and this along with the introduction becomes the first lesson. How many more lessons you then give them is entirely up to you.

Enjoy !

No More Isotopes