[au5467]

Hi, I have to do this lab that uses common household catalyst.
The lab uses Mg ribbon and 6M HCl, which already has fast reaction rate.
.. But is there any common household catalyst that will affect the reaction rate?

I have searched the web for days and I can't find any good catalysts that are common in households--I know copper affects the rate, but does it increase or decrease the reaction rate?

Has anyone done a similar lab before? My teacher is such a vigorous lady...

[Arkcon]

Your description of the experiment is a little far out there -- I also don't know of a household catalyst either.  But, I don't know of a catalyst that slows down a reaction that is spontaneous and rapid, such a thing is usually called an inhibitor.  I am also unaware how copper can be a catalyst, for this particular reaction, because it is already rapid, or even how it can be an inhibitor.  So you may have to fill us in some more.

[lutesium]

If you want to inhibit your reaction add some more water or make the Mg pieces more solid                                                                  by pressing them or putting a dash of HCl resistant paint (to lessen the reactant surface)!!!


Lutesium...

[Astrokel]

Wait, i don't quite get it. You need a catalyst for reaction between Mg and HCl? As for copper and HCl, see the reactivity series to compare it with Mg.