demonstrations:dry_ice_detergent_bubbles

Dry Ice Detergent Bubbles

Materials: ★★★ Requires materials not commonly found in school laboratories
Difficulty: ★☆☆ Can be easily done by most teenagers
Safety: ★★☆ Some safety precautions required to perform safely

Categories: Dry Ice

Alternative titles: Dry Ice Bubbles

Summary

Adding dry ice to warm soapy water produces a steady stream of fog-filled bubbles that overflow from the container. The bubbles are safe to touch and pop.

Procedure

  1. Put on thick gloves or use tongs to handle dry ice safely.
  2. Fill a plastic container halfway with warm water.
  3. Add a squirt of detergent and gently mix.
  4. (Optional) Add a few drops of food coloring for extra effect.
  5. Drop a chunk of dry ice into the warm water using tongs.
  6. Watch as bubbles filled with fog build up and spill over the edge.
  7. Touch or pop the bubbles to release a puff of mist.

Sublimation - Dry Ice, Detergent and Water - Sarah Jones:


📄 Dry Ice Experiments with Bubbles - Eating Richly: https://eatingrichly.com/dry-ice-experiments-bubbles/

Variations

  • Experiment with different water temperatures.
  • Allow kids to blow gently on the bubbles or fog to see how air currents affect them.

Safety Precautions

  • Always wear thick gloves or use tongs when handling dry ice to prevent frostbite.
  • Do not touch dry ice with bare skin.
  • Conduct the experiment in a well-ventilated area—carbon dioxide gas can build up in enclosed spaces.
  • Never allow children to put dry ice near their mouths.

Questions to Consider

  • Why does warm water produce more fog than cold water?
  • Why are the bubbles heavier than regular air bubbles?
  • How does adding more soap change the experiment?