'Breaking Bad' chemistry experiments that blew our minds
What's the story
The iconic television series Breaking Bad is famous for its gripping storytelling and character development. But it also features some memorable chemistry experiments that are both entertaining and educational. These scenes give a glimpse of the practical applications of chemistry in a dramatic way. Here are five such experiments from the show that stand out for their creativity and impact on the storyline.
#1
The blue meth phenomenon
One of the most iconic elements of Breaking Bad is the blue methamphetamine, which becomes a signature product for Walter White's operation. The blue color is not just for aesthetics; it signifies purity and quality in the drug trade. While the real-world chemistry behind meth production is complex and illegal, the show's portrayal highlights how chemical processes can lead to distinct physical properties.
#2
The acid dissolve scene
In one memorable scene, Walter White uses hydrochloric acid to dissolve a body in a bathtub. This experiment demonstrates the corrosive properties of acids on organic material. While this scene is dramatic and serves as a plot device, it also showcases basic principles of acid-base reactions in chemistry. The choice of acid and container material becomes crucial when the bathtub dissolves.
#3
The mercury fulminate explosion
Breaking Bad features a dramatic moment when Jesse Pinkman uses mercury fulminate as an explosive compound. This scene highlights the dangers associated with handling sensitive explosives in chemistry. Mercury fulminate is known for its instability and can detonate with minimal pressure or friction. The portrayal serves as a reminder of how easily chemical reactions can go out of control if not handled properly.
#4
The phosphine gas incident
In another episode, Walter White creates phosphine gas by mixing certain chemicals together. Phosphine is highly toxic and flammable, making it a dangerous byproduct in any experiment gone wrong. This scene illustrates how some chemical reactions can produce harmful gases unexpectedly, emphasizing safety precautions necessary when conducting experiments involving volatile substances.
#5
The crystallization process explained
Throughout Breaking Bad, there are references to crystallization processes involved in purifying compounds like methamphetamine. Crystallization is a fundamental technique used in chemistry labs to separate solids from liquids based on differences in solubility. The show's depiction provides insight into how crystallization techniques are applied within illegal drug manufacturing contexts, while highlighting its significance beyond entertainment value alone.