Hydrogen Peroxide Chemistry Projects
Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical, most commonly found in liquid form, that is composed of two hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms per molecule. Because of its reactive nature with certain chemicals, science experiments with hydrogen peroxide tend to be very visual. Hydrogen peroxide is a useful chemical to use to teach chemical decomposition, enzymes and catalysts.
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Elephant Toothpaste
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This science experiment displays the decomposition properties of hydrogen peroxide. Specifically, when hydrogen peroxide breaks down, it breaks down into oxygen and water. This experiment uses a catalyst to break down the hydrogen peroxide and dish soap to provide a visual effect for this breakdown. Concentrated hydrogen peroxide and dish soap are mixed. The catalyst, most often in the form of a metal, is introduced. As the hydrogen peroxide breaks down, the water it creates mixes with the soap to make bubbles. The oxygen then pushes the bubbles. The end result is a foamy mess that resembles toothpaste in look and texture.
Catalyst Test
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In this experiment, a number of dishes are set up, each with the same amount of concentrated hydrogen peroxide. It is important that the same amount of hydrogen peroxide is used in order to have a constant. Various chemicals and substances are introduced to the hydrogen peroxide. Only one chemical or substance is introduced per dish. The goal is to see which chemicals cause the hydrogen peroxide to decompose into water and oxygen. Those that do are labeled catalysts.
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Volcano
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Most people are familiar with the vinegar and baking soda science fair volcanoes. This chemistry experiment relied on the natural reaction that occurs when vinegar and baking soda interact. However, a similar experiment can be conducted to display the chemical reaction that occurs between hydrogen peroxide and yeast. This experiment works because the yeast contains an enzyme known as catalase. Catalase is in many organisms and serves to break down hydrogen peroxide. In other words, it is a catalyst. When combined, the yeast and the hydrogen peroxide release oxygen and water, demonstrating the effectiveness of catalase as well as the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
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References
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