In a classic chemistry demonstration known as elephant toothpaste, liquid hydrogen peroxide rapidly decomposes into oxygen gas and water. Potassium iodide or yeast is added to act as a catalyst, speeding up the process dramatically. At the same time, dish soap is mixed into the liquid to trap the escaping oxygen gas.
The result is a sudden eruption of warm, thick foam that shoots out of the container like a volcano. Because oxygen gas is trapped inside millions of tiny soap bubbles, the volume expands in a matter of seconds. The reaction is also exothermic, meaning it releases heat energy that creates visible steam.
Science educators around the world use this experiment to demonstrate catalytic reactions and gas production. When performed on a large scale, the foam can fill an entire room within seconds.
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Disclaimer: This video is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Information is sourced from public educational materials and imagery is used for illustrative purposes.
