Activity

Elephant Toothpaste

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet
This Elephant Toothpaste activity also includes:

Get a surprised reaction from trying out the chemical reaction. Scholars conduct a chemical experiment by adding yeast to hydrogen peroxide and dish soap in a plastic bottle. They learn that yeast contains a catalase enzyme that releases an oxygen atom from the hydrogen peroxide, resulting in a foam that shoots out from the bottle like toothpaste.

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Instructional Ideas
  • Take the class outside to conduct the experiment so cleanup isn't a problem
Classroom Considerations
  • Requires a variety of materials, including 3% hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and dry yeast
  • Basic knowledge of atoms and molecules, as well as chemical reactions, is beneficial
Pros
  • Includes a video that shows the entire process for the experiment
  • Explains some safety tips to consider when conducting the activity
Cons
  • None