How to make elephant toothpaste (!Alert!

alot of nerdy stuff)

Elephant toothpaste is a chemical reaction that makes a volcano of foam when soapy
water traps gases from the rapid decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
There are two easy methods for making elephant toothpaste. One makes a giant
mountain of foam, while the other produces a smaller effect but is safe enough for
kids to touch.
The dramatic reaction uses strong peroxide and potassium iodide, while the kid-
friendly version uses dilute peroxide and replaces potassium iodide with yeast.

First, you may wonder why the reaction has the name “elephant toothpaste.” It’s
because the thick column of foam escaping a tube looks like toothpaste big enough
for an elephant to use.
Also, it’s a lot easier and more descriptive than calling the reaction “rapid
decomposition of peroxide”.
After all, the point of elephant toothpaste is engaging people in the wonder of
science. Even if someone doesn’t understand the chemistry, the project is fun and
entertaining.

You need hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, yeast, water, food coloring, and a bottle to
make it.
The yeast acts as a catalyst that breaks down the hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and
water.
The oxygen bubbles get trapped in the dish soap, creating a thick foam that shoots
out of the bottle.
You can add food coloring to make the foam colorful and more exciting.
Be careful with the hydrogen peroxide, as it can irritate your skin and eyes. Wear
safety glasses and gloves.

Pour ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide into a container.

Add a generous amount of dish soap.
If desired, add food coloring for color.
Add a catalyst (such as potassium iodide or yeast).
And a big bomb will happen!