Innovating Science™ Chemistry Demonstration Kits: Reduction-Oxidation Rainbow

Rainbow reaction colorfully demonstrates an oscillation reaction.

In this demonstration, hydrogen peroxide is added to a colorless solution of potassium iodide and a red color is produced. But when hydrogen peroxide is added to a purple solution of potassium permanganate, the solution becomes colorless! What causes these dramatically different color changes? The explanation lies in the fact that hydrogen peroxide can behave as an oxidizing agent or a reducing agent, depending on the circumstances. Hydrogen peroxide oxidizes iodide ion to iodine. However, in the presence of a strong oxidizer such as potassium permanganate, hydrogen peroxide becomes a weak reducing agent, reducing the permanganate ion to the manganese ion plus oxygen.

Certifications/Compliance

DOT Info: Small quantity exemption 173.4. This package conforms TO 49 CFR 173.4 for domestic highway or rail transport only.

Product Type

Reduction-Oxidation Rainbow Demonstration Kit

Color

White

Grade

7 to 14

Age

13 to 20

For Use With (Application)

Redox Reactions

Includes

1 x 100mL hydrogen peroxide, 3% solution,1 x 200mL potassium iodide, 0.1m solution, 1 x 200mL potassium, permanganate, 0.02m solution, 1 x 10mL sulfuric acid, concentrated un1830

Quantity

1

Dimensions (L x W x H)

6 x 4.25 x 6.875 in.