Concentrated sulfuric acid is added to sugar, causing a vigorous dehydration and oxidation reaction. The mixture heats up and produces steam, carbon dioxide, and a growing black column of carbon that resembles a snake rising from the container.

1. Fill a small beaker about two-thirds full with sugar.
2. Carefully pour 10–15 ml of concentrated sulfuric acid onto the sugar.
3. Wait and observe as the reaction generates heat and a black carbon mass rises out of the beaker.

H2SO4 and Sugar (Carbon Snake) - MrLeavittScience:

📄 “Carbon snake” experiment - MEL Science: https://melscience.com/AU-en/articles/carbon-snake-experiment/?srsltid=AfmBOorFTI7ugDBb0ltD7wP0WYLO0gLWb2WaccaLAw0zFqKHpI3M-Eum

📄 Carbon Snake - UC San Diego: https://www-chem.ucsd.edu/undergraduate/teaching-labs/demos/demo31.html

• Try using different container sizes to produce snakes of varying shapes.
• Use food coloring in the sugar for visual effects before the reaction begins.

• Wear safety glasses and gloves.
• Perform the experiment in a fume hood or well-ventilated area.
• Avoid skin or clothing contact with sulfuric acid.
• Be cautious of intense heat generated during the reaction.
• Conduct only under professional supervision.

• Why does sulfuric acid cause sugar to blacken and expand? (It dehydrates sugar, removing water and leaving behind carbon.)
• What gases are released during the reaction? (Primarily water vapor and carbon dioxide.)
• Why must this experiment be performed in a fume hood? (The reaction releases gases and vapors that may be harmful in enclosed spaces.)