Demonstrate the effectiveness of different catalysts for the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide by assessing the reaction rate of varying mixtures of hydrogen peroxide, washing up liquid and a selection of catalysts.

Several measuring cylinders are set up each containing a little washing up liquid and a small amount of a catalyst for the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is poured into the cylinders and a foam rises up the cylinders at a rate that depends on the effectiveness of the catalyst.

Downloads

Postscript

This practical is part of our Classic Chemistry Demonstrations collection.