Lab 11 Experiment 1

Experiment 1: The Effects of Coal Mining
Coal mining, particularly surface mining, leads to large areas of land being temporarily disturbed. The mine workings collect and conduct water that is in contact with the widespread pyrite, a mineral that produces iron and sulfuric acid when exposed to air and water. In this lab, you will see first-hand the reasons why mine drainage can be harmful to the local drainage system if left untreated.
Materials:
(3) 100 mL Beakers
1 tsp. Crushed pyrite
1 tsp. Activated carbon
1 Piece of pH paper Permanent marker
Measuring spoon (or teaspoon)
Water*
* You must provide

Figure 2: pH Key
Procedure
1. Label three beakers: Water, Pyrite, and Carbon.
2. Pour 100 mL of water into each beaker.
3. Cut your pH paper into 6 even pieces.
4. Test the pH of each beaker and record the results in Table 1.
5. Place 1 heaping teaspoon of the crushed pyrite and activated carbon into their corresponding beakers.
6. Set the beakers in a warm place for 48 hours, then test the pH of each. Record the results in Table 1.
Table 1: pH of Water Samples after 48 Hours
Sample
Initial pH Value
Final pH Value

Pyrite
6
4

Activated Carbon 7
8

Water
7
7