Why does Mentos explode in Diet Coke?

When Mentos candies are dropped into a bottle of Diet Coke, a violent eruption of foam occurs. This reaction is caused by the combination of the gum arabic and gelatin in the Mentos candies and the aspartame in the Diet Coke.

Gum arabic is a natural gum that is used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in food products. It is made from the sap of the acacia tree. Gelatin is a protein that is made from the collagen in animal bones and skin. It is used as a gelling agent in food products.

Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that is used in Diet Coke. It is made from two amino acids, phenylalanine and aspartic acid.

When Mentos candies are dropped into a bottle of Diet Coke, the gum arabic and gelatin in the candies react with the aspartame in the soda. This reaction causes the formation of tiny bubbles of carbon dioxide gas. These bubbles then rise to the surface of the soda, causing it to erupt.

The amount of foam that is produced by this reaction depends on the number of Mentos candies that are used. The more Mentos candies that are used, the more foam will be produced.

The reaction between Mentos candies and Diet Coke is a fun and harmless way to create a foam explosion. It is a great way to demonstrate the chemical properties of food and drinks.