The Copper Basin Problem: Student Section Investigation 2

What Chemicals Are Found in Copper Basin Soil?
(Coordinates with Teacher Lesson 3)

The soil used to reclaim the land that was destroyed by copper mining in Ducktown, Tennessee, contained minerals left from the roasting and smelting processes. The depleted soil apparently did not allow for reforestation of the area. In this lab we will analyze soil from the Copper Basin for its chemical content. The procedures focus on the chemicals needed for plant growth and those that might remain in the soil as a result of mining. The chemicals found in fertilizers are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Mining probably left behind some types of copper compounds and sulfides. We will also test local soil and humus for comparison. Later we can correlate these results with the observations from the previous investigation.

Problem:

Does the Copper Basin soil contain chemicals that will support the growth of plants?

Materials:

• Chemical test kits for soil analysis
• soil samples

Procedure:

1. Read all cautions and safety procedures for each of the chemical tests. Follow the directions carefully when performing each of the chemical tests.
2. Construct a chart in which the results of each test can be easily recorded.
3. Perform the following soil tests;
   • pH
   • Phosphorus
   • Nitrogen
   • Potassium
   • Sulfide
   • Copper
4. Clean up your lab station and wash your hands.
5. Compare your results with those from other groups.