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1st Grade Science Experiment: Removing Rust from Nails

Hi,

My daughter is in 1st grade and working on her Science Fair experiment (obviously with some help). We've taken about 25 rusty nails and have observed them in all different liquids to determine which would clean them the best. As of right now (4 days into the experiment), fruit punch, anodized cookware cleaner, and Clean Shower have been the best at cleaning the nails. I've researched on the web to find out what properties (especially the fruit punch) might be cleaning the nails but haven't had much luck. On the other hand, bleach (obviously) has been the worst cleaner (but the most interesting to watch). Do you know some good 1st grade level research sites I can show her for her experiment so she can understand what's going on. Thanks for your help.

Holly Raissipour
parent - Issaquah, Washington, USA
2004

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I don't know of specific web sites, but I think you will find that the best rust-removers you listed are all acidic. Rust is iron oxide, and oxides generally dissolve in acidic solutions.

James Totter, CEF
- Tallahassee, Florida
2004

A common rust remover in the aerospace industry is a heavy duty alkaline rust remover. Several compounds offer the alkalinity and a sequestrant is added that ties up the iron oxide. Oldsheimers has struck-I do not remember the most common additive.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida
2004