10A10.20 - Oxygen Liberation

See Procedure
See Procedure.
Code Number:
10A10.20
Demo Title:
Oxygen Liberation
Condition:
Good
Principle:
Oxidation - Reduction
Area of Study:
Chemistry, Electricity
Equipment:
30 percent Hydrogen Peroxide, Manganese Dioxide, Bunsen Burner, Matches, Mortar and Pestle, Ring Stand, Catch Pan, Towels, Dishwashing Liquid, 1000 ml Beaker.
Procedure:

Pour the bottle of 30 percent hydrogen peroxide into the beaker. Do not get this on exposed skin as this is a strong oxidizer and will produce burns. Crush some manganese dioxide into a powder with the mortar and pestle. THIS WILL BE DIFFICULT. Add a generous amount of soap to the hydrogen peroxide . When ready add a small amount of the catalyst (manganese dioxide) to the beaker of liquid. A great amount of gas filled bubbles will be liberated . The rate of reaction may be enhanced by warming the solution with the Bunsen burner.

NOTE : The Hydrogen Peroxide must be fresh as it does break down over time. Biochemistry Stores is my usual supplier. 

The reaction is:
            Mn02
2H2O2 -------------> 2H2O + O2 (gas)
                                        

References:
  • Tik Liem, "The Rising Suds", Investigation to Science Inquiry, pp. 154.
  • #96, "Helper",  Janice VanCleave's 204 Sticky, Gloppy, Wacky and Wonderful Experiments.
  • Vladimir Haensel and Robert L. Burwell, Jr., "Catalysis", Scientific American, Vol. 224, # 7 to 12, 1971, p. 46.
  • Bobby Mercer, "Baby Elephant's Toothpaste", Junk Drawer Chemistry, 2016, p. 125.

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