'Breaking Bad' chemistry: 4 explosive science moments explained
What's the story
While Breaking Bad is widely celebrated for its intense storytelling and multidimensional characters, it is also credited with accurately depicting the world of chemistry. The creators of the show put in a lot of effort to make the science involved as authentic as possible, which added to the show's charm. Let's take a look at some of Breaking Bad's iconic scientific moments and the chemistry behind 'em.
ACID insight
The infamous hydrofluoric acid scene
One of the most memorable scenes involves hydrofluoric acid, which is used to dissolve organic material. In reality, hydrofluoric acid is highly corrosive and can dissolve many substances, including glass. However, it would not work on certain materials like plastic or metal. The scene emphasizes the importance of understanding the properties of chemicals and their limitations in practical applications.
Explosive chemistry
Mercury fulminate explosion explained
In another iconic moment, Walter White uses mercury fulminate to create an explosion. A real compound, mercury fulminate, is famously known for its explosive properties on friction or shock. While Breaking Bad dramatizes its effects for entertainment, it is accurate in showing how unstable compounds can be manipulated under the right conditions.
Toxic gas insight
Phosphine gas as a lethal weapon
Walter White's weapon of choice- phosphine gas- shows us another cool side of chemistry. It is true that phosphine gas is toxic and can even kill people if inhaled in large amounts. This is exactly how things play out in real life when chemical reactions produce toxic gases when not handled properly.
Heat reaction
Thermite reaction demonstrated
In one of the most iconic scenes, Walter White uses a thermite reaction, mixing aluminum powder with iron oxide. This produces extreme heat, sufficient to melt through metal locks. The process is scientifically correct, with aluminum acting as a reducing agent. It produces molten iron and creates extreme temperatures when ignited, demonstrating the use of chemistry in the most creative ways.