Elephant Toothpaste Experiment

Elephant toothpaste is a well-known experiment that demonstrates an interesting and entertaining chemical reaction.

This reaction occurs because yeast contains a chemical called catalase which can act as a catalyst in this reaction. A catalyst is something that can help to speed up a reaction. The catalase helps to speed up the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide. The chemical formula for hydrogen peroxide is H2O2 and when it decomposes it forms oxygen gas (O2) and water (H2O). Without the dish soap, the oxygen would form bubbles and escape the liquid. With dish soap, there is more surface tension, and the bubbles get trapped and eventually create foam.

Materials:

• 1 packet of dry yeast

• Warm water (to activate the yeast)

• ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide (12% makes a stronger reaction but 3% is safer)

• Food coloring

• Dish soap

• Container for performing the experiment

• Safety goggles

Procedure:

1. Put on safety goggles (especially if you are using 12% hydrogen peroxide)

2. Bring your materials outside as this experiment can be messy

3. Activate the packet of yeast with the warm water

4. In a separate container, add ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide and a couple of drops of food coloring

5. Add a squirt of dish soap to the hydrogen peroxide mixture

6. Add the yeast mixture to the hydrogen peroxide mixture and watch the reaction