3:16 practical: investigate the effect of different solids on the catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide solution

Oxygen (O₂) is made in the lab from hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) using manganese(IV) oxide (MnO₂) as a catalyst.

Different catalysts could be used to investigate which is the most effective in decomposing hydrogen peroxide. Examples of other substances which could be tested are:

• Manganese dioxide
• Liver
• Potato
• Potassium iodide
• Copper oxide
• Sodium chloride

Only some of these are effective catalysts when used with hydrogen peroxide. If a substance is not a catalyst, there will be no bubbles of oxygen produced. For other substances, such as liver which is a very effective catalyst in the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, bubbles of oxygen will be produced quickly.