Here’s a cool chemistry experiment we did- reigniting a flame using hydrogen peroxide!
So how does this work? Hydrogen Peroxide is H2O2- there are two hydrogens and two oxygens. When yeast is added to hydrogen peroxide, it speeds up the process of decomposing H2O2 into H20 (or water). You are able to see the oxygen as bubbles when you add in yeast directly into the H2O2 and put a lid loosely on a jar ( we used a miniature bowl over a oui yogurt glass). When you light a toothpick and let the flame extinguish, it is glowing. Touch that glowing part (ember) near or to an oxygen bubble and the flame reignites! So cool! Check out our video below!
Materials:
Safety Goggles
Water (in case of a fire emergency)
Well ventilated area
3% Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2)- you will need 1/2 cup
Jar with Lid
A packet of yeast (or 2 tsp)
Lighter
Toothpicks
Directions:
1- Put on safety goggles
2- Pour 1/2 cup of H2O2 into a jar or beaker
3- Open the yeast packet and spoon out 2 teaspoons into the H2O2.
4- Put a lid loosely over the yeast and H2O2 mixture. Watch the Oxygen bubbles!
5-Light a toothpick on fire with a lighter.
6-Out of the toothpick fire so it is glowing.
7-Put the toothpick ember near or on the oxygen bubble and watch it reignite!
8- When you are done with the experiment, make sure the flames are completely extinguished before throwing it away.
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*Adult Supervision Is Required For All Activities*