Solubility of Carbon Dioxide

This demo demonstrates the temperature dependence of the solubility of carbon dioxide in water.  The solubility of gases decreases with increased temperature and agitation.  This demo works well as a humorous skit with one instructor enjoying a cold drink while the other gets doused!  

Curriculum Notes 

This demo works well in a unit that deals with solutions.

Lead Time 
One day of lead time is required for this project.
Materials 

two 20-oz. bottles of carbonated water (This demo is a lot cleaner if you use one of those flavored seltzer water rather than soda pop.)

Procedure 

Cool one of the bottles in a refrigerator.  Warm one of the bottles in a hot tap water bath.  Shake the warm bottle "offstage" before opening!

Safety Precautions 

Don't get wet.

© Copyright 2012 Email: Randy Sullivan, University of Oregon Chemistry Department and UO Libraries Interactive Media Group