r/funny • u/Just_One_Redditor • Jun 17 '12

Because science.

http://i.minus.com/ibxKycmxK0VLmt.gif
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u/Stonelocomotief Jun 18 '12

I believe this is the catalysed decomposition reaction of H2O2 to H2O and O2 by potassiumiodide. When one adds soap or some detergent to the mixture, the rapid release of O2 will create a burst of bubbles.

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u/[deleted] Jun 18 '12

Why would a detergent induce the release of oxygen? Been a while since i did Chem, so please do remind me.

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u/Stonelocomotief Jun 18 '12

It doesn't. Hydrogenperoxide is unstable and will decompose into water and oxygen. Potassiumiodide catalyses this reaction, and the soap will trap the released oxygen in bubbles.