Bath bombs are scented sphere masses of compressed powders and oils that make for a colorful and aromatic bathing experience. For kids, they are fun to add to the bathtub, while for adults, bath bombs are a way to relax and pamper self after a long day.

However, for us, the utmost fascinating aspect of bath bombs is their science! A bath bomb is essentially composed of, among other things, a base and an acid. It is a neutralization reaction of citric acid and sodium bicarbonate (base) that is triggered by means of contact with water. When dropped into water, the solid particles holding the shape of the bath bomb are dissolved, and the acidic and basic ions are allowed to disperse. During this process, the ions counteract and create a 'fizzing' reaction as produced by carbon dioxide gas. Then, oil reacts with the base to form soap and glycerol – a substance that is extremely healthy for the skin.

Reactions During Contact with Water

When utilizing a bath bomb, two reactions are observed:

1. A saponification reaction
2. A gas-producing reaction

Saponification Reaction: It is a reaction between a fatty ester and a base that creates soap and glycerol. A soap is a salt of an alkali metal, for instance, sodium. Oil acts as the fatty ester as it is a product of triglycerides. The sodium bicarbonate breaks the bonds of the oil ester and releases the fatty acid salt (soap) and glycerol (a very efficient skin moisturizer) into the water, making it soapy.

Neutralization (Gas-Producing Reaction): In this process, an acid and a base react together to neutralize the pH level of the solution; producing water and a salt. The reaction between the acid and the base produces salt, water, as well as carbon dioxide gas (indicating the involvement of a fizz in the reaction process, thus producing a gas). The neutralization reaction that occurs when bath bomb is dropped into water is:

1. Base + Acid --------> Gas + Salt + Water
2. Sodium bicarbonate + Citric Acid --------> Carbon dioxide + Sodium citrate + Water
3. 3NaHCO₃ + C₆H₈O₇ --------> 3CO₂ + C₆H₅Na₃O₇ + 3H₂O

The effects of a bath bomb infused bath are mind-clearing and skin-calming – the exact reason for their popularity! To reap the benefits of a bath bomb, check out https://merakilanes.com/shop/ and grab the one that matches your aesthetic! Embrace the experience by creating a playlist, dimming the lights, and enjoying an uninterrupted bathing-time.