Fake Gold and Green Skin

More fun info based on our studies of elements, chemical reactions, acids and salts so far this year…

HowStuffWorks “Why does fake gold turn your skin green?”: “When you buy a cheap, fake gold ring, it’s likely made of mostly copper. When you perspire, the metals in the ring react with the acid in your sweat to form salts, which are green. These acids are essentially causing the copper to corrode on the surface of the metal, which forms a salt compound of the metal. These salts are absorbed into the skin and the result is a decidedly green digit. This is nothing to be worried about; it’s not a metal allergy you’re suffering from. It simply means that the gold ring you thought was real is really just a cheap imitation. Metal allergies cause redness and swelling, not a dull green color. Another way to spot fake gold is that it can rust in high humidity or over time. “

The world is much more interesting when you know a little background information!