KMnO₄ and Glycerin Volcano Reaction

Don't try this experiment at home. In this chemistry demonstration, I show the powerful oxidation reaction between potassium permanganate (KMnO₄) and glycerin (C₃H₈O₃) inside a small volcano mold. This reaction produces an intense exothermic burst of heat, smoke, and purple sparks — perfectly illustrating the process of oxidation and reduction in action!

When glycerin contacts solid KMnO₄, it’s rapidly oxidized, releasing heat and energy that causes the mixture to ignite. This spectacular reaction is a great example of a redox reaction and the oxidizing power of potassium permanganate.

Chemical Reaction (simplified):
14 KMnO₄ + 4 C₃H₈O₃ → 7 Mn₂O₃ + 10 CO₂ + 16 H₂O + K₂CO₃

What You’ll Learn:
How oxidation–reduction (redox) reactions work
Why glycerin acts as a reducing agent
How potassium permanganate serves as a strong oxidizer
How heat and light are produced in exothermic reactions