Moore, Timothy
Moore, Timothy
Instructor: Mrs. Tammy Moore
Class: VHSG Online Biology
15 September, 2009
Catalase and Hydrogen Peroxide
Catalase enzyme’s breakdown of Hydrogen Peroxide
Abstract
Various conditions are explored in the catalyzed reaction of hydrogen peroxide.
Introduction
When you add hydrogen peroxide to a cut it bubbles quite vigorously. Its cleaning properties
coming from the bubbles dislodging dirt and germs that would otherwise have remained in the wound.
It is also thought that the oxygen that is released in the reaction harms the anaerobic bacteria that are
often responsible for infections in the body. In this lab, I explored controlled experiments using liver
(contains catalase enzyme) and hydrogen peroxide. I varied some of the conditions to see how it would
impact the effectiveness of the enzyme.
Methods and Observations
Materials

Seven test tubes (other containers can be used. Glass is best so you can see well)

Liver (beef is easier to cut than chicken or turkey liver, but either work)

Blender (or other device that can finely chop the liver to near puree texture)

Hydrogen peroxide (try to get as fresh as possible because it does break down to water over
time. If your bottle expels air when you open it, it is too old.)

Distilled water

Pan and access to a stove to boil liver
Moore, Timothy

Ice water
First, I set up a control by adding just distilled water to a test tube and added 5 mL of hydrogen
peroxide and noted my observations in the data section.
Then, in test tube 2 I took a piece of liver and added it and distilled water to the next test tube. There
was just enough water to cover the small piece of liver. I added 5mL of hydrogen peroxide and noted
my observation of the vigorousness of the reaction into the data section.
Next, I removed the liver from the test tube and placed in into the third tube with fresh water, just
enough to cover the liver. I added 5 mL of hydrogen peroxide and noted the results.
I also tested boiled liver and noted the reaction.
Then I tested liver that had been in ice water.
[other things to try: add some lemon juice or other acidic substance to see how changing the pH
impacts the reaction. Try an alkaline substance such as making soda too.]
Data
[Label and describe each reaction’s vigorousness]
Conclusion
The catalase […insert your conclusion here.]