What are the chemicals that make pop rocks pop?

The popping effect in Pop Rocks is caused by a chemical reaction between two ingredients: baking soda and calcium lactate. When these two substances come into contact with saliva or water, they react to produce carbon dioxide gas. The rapid release of this gas causes the tiny bubbles in the candy to expand, creating the characteristic popping sensation.

Here's a more detailed explanation of how the reaction works:

1. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and calcium lactate are both dissolved in water.

2. When the saliva or water comes into contact with the candy, the baking soda and calcium lactate react to form calcium bicarbonate and sodium lactate.

3. Calcium bicarbonate is unstable and decomposes into carbon dioxide gas, water, and calcium carbonate.

4. The rapid release of carbon dioxide gas creates a large number of tiny bubbles that expand and burst, causing the popping sensation.

In addition to baking soda and calcium lactate, Pop Rocks also contain sugar, corn syrup, natural flavors, and artificial colors. These ingredients help to create the candy's sweet and tangy flavor and its colorful appearance.