How pH Level Affects Corrosion Rate

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The purpose of this project was to discover how the pH level affects corrosion rate. The hypothesis was if the pH level affects the corrosion rate, then the lower the pH level is quicker the corrosion rate would be. This will happen because liquids below the pH level of 7 possess stronger acidic attributes. The effect of pH level on corrosion rate was determined by depositing a copper penny in each of three plastic cups, and then three different liquids by their pH levels, were assigned to be displaced into each cup formulating a chemical reaction to be observed. The results collected during this investigation contradicted with the intended result, this experiment was conducted to determine corrosion rate; Dana Puti Vingear (pH level: 4.5) 4 2/3 days, Tropicana Orange Juice (pH level 3.88) 6 1/3 days, and Sprite (pH level: 3.4) 8 days. The results showed that the hypothesis was refuted. This happened because the preconceived idea was that the liquid with the lowest pH level; Sprite, would have the quickest corrosion rate. Dana Puti Vinegar had the quickest corrosion rate proving the statement wrong, it was discovered that it contains ethanoic acid; acid containing twice the amount of carbon dioxide than a regular acid. To further understand this topic, future research could include; how does the amount of liquid incorporated affect the corrosion rate, how does the temperature of the liquid affect the corrosion rate, and how does the purity of iron affect the corrosion rate?

Prior Research

Elements, corrode when in proximity with liquid; water and oxygen, these compounds and elements are mandatory for corrosion to occur. Corrosion is a result from oxidation; when an element corresponds with oxygen. For example when the element;...

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...the corrosion rate, then the lower the pH level is, the quicker the corrosion rate would be. This will happen because if the pH level of a liquid is lower, the hydrogen ions will consume the electrolytes, hydrogen ions are also being consumed and the element starts corroding faster.

Trials:

There were 3 trials for each level of pH level in liquids and a total of 9 trials throughout the experiment. Multiple trials are required to make sure the data corresponds to the research. It is important to have several trials to make sure the data being collected at the end of the experiment is parallel and is related to each other. More trials help the scientist conducting the experiment to have more accurate results and to see if a mishap or error occurred early in the experiment. This can help them in the near future to correct mistakes and not repeat them next time.
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