Figure 1
Introduction When hydrogen peroxide or H2O2 (3%) solution is poured on a skin wound to cleanse it, the hydrogen peroxide disproportionates to water and oxygen gas. As a result, the solution bubbles vigorously. What is responsible for this vigorous reaction is the enzyme called catalase that serves as a biological catalyst. The natural function of this enzyme is to prevent the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide in the body of living organisms, since an excessive build up can damage body tissues. Hydrogen peroxide is formed in the body during oxidation reactions involving O2. Catalase is abundant in the tissues of many organisms including microorganisms, animals and plants. In this experiment we use Pressure Sensors to observe and measure the release of O 2 from a H2O2 solution within yeast.