How to Remove Tea Stains from Spoons with Baking Soda and Foil

Описание: How to Remove Tea Stains from Spoons with Baking Soda and Foil


Materials Needed:
1. Aluminum foil (a small sheet is enough)
2. Baking soda (a few tablespoons)
3. Tea-stained spoons or any tarnished silverware
4. Boiling water
5. A bowl (preferably heat-safe glass or metal)


Procedure:
1. Line the bottom of the bowl with aluminum foil (shiny side up).
2. Place the tea-stained spoons on top of the foil.
3. Add 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda to the bowl.
4. Pour boiling water into the bowl until it covers the spoons completely.
5. Wait for about 5-10 minutes.
• You should notice some bubbling as the reaction begins.
• The tea stains or tarnish will start to lift off the spoons.
6. Once the reaction stops, carefully remove the spoons (use tongs if the water is still hot).
7. Rinse the spoons under cool water and gently wipe with a cloth to reveal their shine.



Science Behind It:
• Tea stains on metal are often caused by tannins and mild oxidation.
• When you add baking soda (a mild alkali) and hot water, the tarnish or stains are loosened.
• The aluminum foil acts as a catalyst, attracting the tarnish from the metal spoon through an electrochemical reaction, essentially reversing the oxidation.


This experiment not only cleans your spoons but also demonstrates a practical application of chemistry in everyday life!

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