Happy Christmas Eve and Merry Christmas! The time has come for our last holiday inspired science activity, and we think we saved the best for last. Today, we’re going to make Reindeer toothpaste! Because let’s be honest, they’re probably eating just as many cookies as Santa, and we don’t want them getting any cavities.
Materials
- ½ cup 12% hydrogen peroxide
- Dish soap
- ¼ cup warm water
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- Food coloring
- Large water or soda bottle
- Safety goggles
- Pan or cookie sheet
Instructions
- Adult supervision required!
- Mix the warm water and the yeast and set aside, giving the yeast time to activate.
- Mix the hydrogen peroxide and soap together in the bottle.
- Add food coloring. Try drizzling down the sides of the bottle, so it makes streaks in the “toothpaste”. Place the bottle on a pan or cookie sheet to contain the mess.
- Once the yeast has had time to start growing, pour it in the water bottle, and you’ll get your reindeer toothpaste!
Background
So, what’s the science behind this Christmas experiment?
Hydrogen peroxide is made up of hydrogen atoms and oxygen atoms. Under the right conditions, hydrogen peroxide can undergo a chemical reaction, breaking down into these two parts.
Yeast contains an enzyme called catalase because it works as a catalyst, speeding up the rate of a chemical reaction. The yeast helped remove oxygen from the hydrogen peroxide quickly, which created tons of bubbles. The foam is made as the dish soap traps all of these tiny oxygen bubbles.
This experiment was discovered on the Preschool Powol Packets blog where you’ll find many other great ideas for your little ones.
Happy Holidays everyone!
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