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Copper reacts with oxygen, carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide to form compounds called a "patina", which can very loosely be thought of as a sort of rust. These compounds have a greenish cast to them.

The best example of patina is the Statue of Liberty. It's made of copper and when new it looked like a shiny penny. Exposure to the atmosphere for over a century has caused the familiar green color.

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Q: Why do copper coins turn green?
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Related questions

What makes sprite turn green?

Sprite can turn green when it comes into contact with copper from pipes or coins due to a chemical reaction that forms copper compounds. These copper compounds can change the appearance of the drink, giving it a green tint. It is safe to drink, but it is recommended to avoid consuming drinks that have changed color as a precaution.


If the green color of the copper coating that covers the statue of liberty is different from the color of a typical copper penny what caused the statue of liberty copper coating to turn green?

Acid in the rain reacted with the copper to turn it green. That is why there is sometimes green on pennies. Acid in the rain reacted with the copper to turn it green. That is why there is sometimes green on pennies. Acid in the rain reacted with the copper to turn it green. That is why there is sometimes green on pennies. Acid in the rain reacted with the copper to turn it green. That is why there is sometimes green on pennies.


Will iron oxide turn copper green?

No, iron oxide will not turn copper green. The green patina on copper is typically the result of oxidation due to exposure to air and moisture, which forms copper carbonate or copper chloride compounds. Iron oxide itself does not have this effect on copper.


Why do penny turn green?

The pennies turn green because they are open to the air, because they contain copper, and because copper turns green when oxidized.


What is the chemical name for a green coating on a coin?

For copper or some copper alloys coins the coating is hydrated copper carbonate.


How does a copper penny turn green?

oxygen.


Why and how does copper turn green?

Becasue of oxidation!


How does a penny turn green?

Copper turns green because of sulfur pollution in the air, forming copper sulfide.


Why does copper chloride turn green?

The brown copper(II) chloride absorb water and form the green dihydrate.


Will pewter turn your skin green?

Pewter turns it black, Copper does turn your skin green though.


Does Hematite turn your skin green?

No, hematite doesn't contain copper so your skin will not turn green


How can a green penny turn green?

A green penny can turn green when exposed to the elements, like oxygen and moisture, causing a chemical reaction with the copper in the penny. This reaction forms copper oxide, which is the green coating that gives the penny its green color.