Why do hot sauce clean pennies?

Hot sauce doesn't actually "clean" pennies in the traditional sense. It's more about a chemical reaction that removes the tarnish, making the penny look shiny.

Here's why:

* Vinegar: Many hot sauces contain vinegar, which is a weak acid. The acid reacts with the copper oxide (tarnish) on the penny, dissolving it and leaving behind clean copper.

* Salt: Some hot sauces also contain salt, which acts as an electrolyte, helping the reaction occur more quickly.

* Capsaicin: While not directly involved in the cleaning process, capsaicin, the chemical that makes hot sauce spicy, can sometimes contribute to the process. However, its effect is minor compared to the vinegar and salt.

It's important to note:

* This method is not recommended for cleaning valuable coins. The acidic nature of hot sauce can damage the coin's surface.

* The cleaned penny will not stay shiny for long. The copper will oxidize again and the penny will tarnish over time.

If you're looking for a more effective and safe way to clean your pennies, try using a mild cleaning solution designed specifically for coins.