How to Spot Fake Metals With Acids

Watch as the American Chemical Society employs some acid know-how to sort real gold from its imposters

Written byAmerican Chemical Society
| 1 min read
Register for free to listen to this article
Listen with Speechify
0:00
1:00

Acids are reactive, with even weak acids like vinegar interacting with other materials to wow students. But strong acids can really put on a show. For example, aqua regia, or royal water, is a mixture of two strong acids—hydrochloric and nitric acids—that can dissolve gold, a noble metal. This reaction can be put to use. Watch as Reactions employs some acid know-how to explain a chemistry detective story to sort real gold from its imposters:
Video Source: The American Chemical Society

Add Lab Manager as a preferred source on Google

Add Lab Manager as a preferred Google source to see more of our trusted coverage.

Related Topics

Loading Next Article...
Loading Next Article...
Current Magazine Issue Background Image

CURRENT ISSUE - March/2026

When the Unexpected Hits

How Lab Leaders Can Prepare for Safety Crises That Don’t Follow the Script

Lab Manager March 2026 Cover Image