Elephant Toothpaste Experiment

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 Ages: 6-12 (with adult supervision)

Objective: Engage children in a visually exciting experiment to demonstrate a rapid chemical reaction and the concept of catalysts.

Materials Needed:

  1. Empty plastic bottle (e.g., a water bottle)
  2. Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution, available at pharmacies)
  3. Dish soap
  4. Dry yeast
  5. Warm water
  6. Food coloring
  7. Small cup
  8. Spoon (for mixing)
  9. Tray or large dish (to contain the foam)

Procedure:

  1. Prepare the Bottle:

    • Place the plastic bottle in the center of the tray or large dish to catch the foam.

  2. Add Hydrogen Peroxide:

    • Pour about half a cup (120 ml) of hydrogen peroxide into the bottle.

  3. Add Dish Soap:

    • Add a few squirts of dish soap to the hydrogen peroxide in the bottle.

  4. Add Food Coloring:

    • Add a few drops of food coloring to make the reaction more visually appealing.

  5. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:

    • In a small cup, mix one tablespoon of dry yeast with three tablespoons of warm water. Stir the mixture well for about 30 seconds.

  6. Pour the Yeast Mixture:

    • Quickly pour the yeast mixture into the bottle with the hydrogen peroxide and soap.

  7. Observe the Reaction:

    • Watch as a large amount of foam erupts from the bottle, resembling a giant tube of toothpaste being squeezed out – hence the name "Elephant Toothpaste."

Explanation:

  • The Elephant Toothpaste experiment demonstrates an exothermic reaction (a reaction that releases heat) and the role of a catalyst. The hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water and oxygen gas, and the yeast acts as a catalyst to speed up this decomposition. The dish soap traps the oxygen bubbles, creating foam.

Extensions:

  1. Change Variables: Experiment with different amounts of hydrogen peroxide or yeast to see how it affects the size and speed of the foam reaction.

  2. Try Different Catalysts: Use different substances as catalysts (e.g., potassium iodide) to observe how they affect the reaction.

  3. Measure Temperature: Use a thermometer to measure the temperature change during the reaction to emphasize the exothermic nature.

  4. Discuss Chemical Reactions: Explain to children the concept of chemical reactions, catalysts, and why some reactions produce heat and foam.

  5. Record Observations: Encourage children to draw or write about what they observe during the experiment, including their hypotheses and the outcomes.

Safety Note:

  • This experiment should be conducted with adult supervision. Hydrogen peroxide can be irritating to the skin and eyes, so it is important to handle it with care. Ensure children do not ingest any of the materials used, and clean up thoroughly after the experiment.

This experiment is exciting and educational, providing a vivid demonstration of chemical reactions and the effect of catalysts in a fun and safe way 

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