Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Why does saltwater start changing colour when an electrical current goes through it for an extended period of time?

I'm not entirely sure, but could it have something to do with the metal corroding? I'm assuming that you are using something like alligator clips and a power source to supply the electricity. How long has the current been going through the saltwater?
Katie

Hello!
Did the liquid turn a dark green color? If so, this could be caused by the oxidation of the metal on your alligator clip! I found a presentation online where a student tested whether or not there was a color change in liquids with high salt concentrations, and his salt water and "saltier" water (double the concentration of salt than in salt water) turned a dark green color after exposed to electrical current.

Lily