Enzyme Catalyzed Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide
Description: A slice of potato or a drop of blood will cause 15% hydrogen peroxide to fizz.
Source: Kimbrough,D.R., Magoun M.A., Langfur, M. ” A Laboratory Experiment Investigating Different Aspects of Catalase Activity in an Inquiry.” Journ Chem Educ.
Year: Feb 1997 Vol: 74 Page: 210
Keywords: Enzyme, Potato, Blood, Hydrogen peroxide, Catalase
Rating: 
Hazard: Some
- Acute toxicity hazard – oral
- Skin corrosion hazard
- Serious eye damage
- Aquatic toxicity hazard
- Specific organ damage – respiratory system
- Electric shock hazard
Effectiveness: Average
- Results are observable with guidance
- Somewhat connected conceptually to course material
- Mild effects are seen by audience
- Time to results is medium
Difficulty: Low
- Simple additions of reagents
- Manipulations are simple for most to perform
Safety Precautions:
- Use of UL approved three-prong plug and outlet
- Gloves required
- Eye protection required
- Absorbent materials on hand
- Prevent release of reagents to the environment
Class: Biochemistry, Catalysis
Division: General
Home| General Chemistry Demos| Biological Chemistry Demos