Flaming Gummy Bears

Alternate titles:

Screaming Gummy Bears

Purpose:

To illustrate rapid oxidation of sugar in the form of gummy bears.

Materials:

• Ring stand
• Torch or Bunsen burner
• Tube clamp
• Wire gauze
• 25x200mm test tube

Reagents:

• Gummy bears (stale)
• Potassium iodate (KClO_3(s))

Hazards and PPE:

• Potassium iodate is an oxidizer and toxin. Store and handle with care.
• Hot potassium iodate is dangerous. Treat with respect.
• Wear approved safety goggles and gloves.

Protocol:

Preparation

1. Fill 25×200mm test tube about 1/4 with KClO_{3 (s)}.
2. Clamp test tube vertically in tube clamp attached to ring stand. Place wire gauze below.

Demonstration

1. Heat test tube evenly until KClO3 is completely melted using a torch or Bunsen burner.
2. While KClO3 is hot and liquid, drop a gummy bear into tube and move back.
3. Gummi bear will light up, producing a tall flame and a loud noise and dancing inside the test tube.
   1. Add more gummy bears slowly and carefully to perpetuate the rapid oxidation as desired.

Additional Notes:

• Cheetos can also be used in this demonstration. Stale cheetos work best.

Disposal:

• The solid remnants of the KClO₃ should be scraped out of the test tube as best as possible and placed in proper solid waste container. The remaining residue can be soaked to allow for easier removal and washed down the sink with excess water.

Citations:

1. Moore, John. University of Wisconsin, Madison.

Videos:

• The Flame Test Experiment- The Chemistry of Colorful Flames

  Chem Camp with Mrs. Newman

  This video uses wood soaked in the metal salt solutions, which is a valid version of this demo up close. The effects are the same.