Elephant toothpaste is a foamy substance that is created by the rapid decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) using potassium iodide (KI) or yeast and warm water as a catalyst. The reaction produces a large amount of oxygen gas, which gets trapped in soap bubbles, creating the foamy substance. The reaction is exothermic, meaning it produces heat, and it is often used as a classroom experiment to demonstrate chemical reactions.
The ingredients needed to create elephant toothpaste are:
- Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)
- Potassium iodide (KI) or yeast
- Warm water
- Dish soap
To create the reaction, the hydrogen peroxide is mixed with the catalyst (potassium iodide or yeast) and warm water. Dish soap is then added to the mixture, which traps the oxygen gas produced by the reaction in soap bubbles, creating the foamy substance.
It is important to note that the reaction can be dangerous if not performed correctly, and it should only be done under the supervision of a trained professional.