a chemical that grows

This one is an impressive thing to do. You can watch a chemical grow with a magnifier. Does this mean it is alive? You should do this with adult or a teacher

MATERIALS: 8% (approximate) solution of silver nitrate (AgNO₃) in a brown dropper bottle (Store solution in a dark place.) depression slides (microscope slides with a well ground into them - regular slides will work if you put a paper towel underneath); bare (uninsulated) copper wire; magnifying glass.

HOW TO DO IT: Cut bare copper wire into pieces about 5 mm long. Put one piece on th center of a slide. Put  one drop of silver nitrate on the wire (CAUTION: do not touch the solution. Silver Nitrate will stain skin and clothing)

The next step is to observe the immediate reaction with the magnifier (it starts right away and continues for several minutes.)

In chemistry, this is known as a replacement reaction. Silver from the solution is depositing as growing crystals in the copper. It forms a beautiful pattern. another change takes place. The silver crystals, at first very bright, shiny, will darken. This is tarnish, due to sulfur in the air forming silver sufide.