Why does your cut bubble white bubbles when pouring on hydrogen peroxide?

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It's because blood contains iron (heme) and cells produce an enzyme called catalase. Catalase is found in nearly all cells and organs and acts as a catalyst in the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. Since a cut contains both blood and of course damaged cells, there is quite a lot of catalase present. When the H2O2 comes into contact with the catalase, it turns the peroxide into water (H2O) and oxygen gas (O2). Catalase breaks down the hydrogen peroxide extremely efficiently - up to 200,000 reactions/second. To see this reaction firsthand, I wouldn't recommend stabbing yourself, but you could pour some H2O2 onto a cut piece of potato to achieve the same results. The damaged potato cells contain catalase and will react with the peroxide in the same way.

It may appear that hydrogen peroxide is not bubbling in the bottle, but actually the same reaction occurs only much slower. Without a catalyst, like catalase, hydrogen peroxide decomposes at a rate of about 1% each year. So pay attention to that expiration date, it may be time to buy some more.

Hydrogen peroxide will make ANY cut bubble. It is normal and it means it is working to kill the germs.

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Why does your cut bubble white bubbles when pouring on hydrogen peroxide?

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