Why does silver tarnish?

sequoianoir

Tarnishing occurs when natural gases in the earth's atmosphere (Hydrogen Sulphide) react with the surface of your silver Jul 31 03, 8:42 PM

lothruin

Actually, anything with sulfer in it causes silver to tarnish, though reaction with hydrogen sulfide in the air is probably the most common reason. The problem can be more pronounced in areas of heavy automobile traffic, such as large cities. Eggs, onions and other foods high in sulfur can also cause silver to tarnish, and latex contains enough sulfur to cause problems as well. Jul 31 03, 8:50 PM

_princess_007

Silver sulfate is the principle product formed when silver turns dark colored (tarnishes). There is sulfur containing compounds in air, and most papers, so to prevent tarnish, one needs to prevent contact of the silvered item with air by storing it in an air tight, sulfur-free container, or, if viewing is desired, applying a tightly adhering clear film such as a lacquer. http://www.finishing.com/74/47.shtml Nov 17 06, 2:54 AM

Create a Free FunTrivia ID to add to, request more/new answers, or edit this entry

Why do silver pieces tarnish? Why is Sterling silver less valuable than Britannia silver? From where does the phrase "Born with a silver spoon in his mouth" come? What quality does such metals as gold, silver and platinum possess that makes them anti-magnetic?

1 Silver This is a general knowledge quiz in which the word 'Silver' appears in all the questions. Thematic 10Q Average Average 10 Q yasmare Jul 29 01 972 plays 2 'Silver Legacy' - The Silver Quiz This is a quiz about one of Reno's finest hotels (and my favorite), "The Silver Legacy." Consider staying a night if you're ever in the area! This quiz only covers information from when the hotel first opened to April 2003. Have fun! World Sites Difficult 20 Q True7HFan Apr 30 03 156 plays 3 Silver Bullet For a chilling test of Knowledge try my TEST on Silver Bullet and watch out for the next full moon! Sg - Sk Movies Average 10 Q corporateministrey Jun 18 00 963 plays