Investigating Phenomena: How Is the Silver Formation Explained?

silver molecules

Carolina Phenomenon

Phenomena-driven science! Phenomena are observable, naturally occurring events that are everywhere and spark student questions and investigations. Ask students to observe the DCI-linked phenomenon in the video and complete the attached student sheet prior to remote learning discussions.

Observations: Carefully watch the copper wire and silver nitrate solution video. Gather all the evidence you can from the video, and write down everything you observe.

Generate Questions: Why do silver crystals form? Why do silver crystals form only on the copper wire? Why does the silver seem to get darker the longer it sits?

Research (include sources):

Final Explanation: Use a written explanation, graphic, or flow chart to present your final explanation for the copper wire and silver nitrate solution reaction.

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