Simple Gas Set

This simple gas preparation set includes a test tube, a one hole stopper and an acrylic tube, for basic preparation of gas in a classroom. It is used when preparing a gas as the result of a chemical reaction, so that the gas can be examined and identified.

Decomposition of hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) decomposes into water and oxygen. The reaction can be catalyzed by the presence of ammonia and by other factors like temperature and the presence of metal ions, and a catalyst accelerates it significantly. Common catalysts include manganese dioxide (MnO2), yeast and potassium iodide (KI). The reaction is often demonstrated with "elephant's toothpaste", where a large volume of oxygen is produced, creating a foam.

How is H2 prepared?

Hydrogen gas (H2) can be produced in the lab by reacting zinc granules with dilute hydrochloric or sulfuric acid. Industrially, hydrogen is primarily produced through steam reforming of hydrocarbons and electrolysis of water.