Physics Geek, Jesus Freak is discussing the recent mythbusters episode in which Kari and the Guys take on the volatile mix of mentos and diet cola. Alas, I haven't seen it yet.
The Mythbusters said that the reason for the intense reaction is that aspartame (Nutrisweet) and some preservatives in Mentos (like sodium benzoate) cause the CO2 to drop out of solution at a very accelerated rate. This NPR clip seems to believe it is all about surface area giving CO2 nucleation sites, but I don't think that is the entirity of the effect. Boing Boing blames the gum arabic in the Mentos (and the rough texture) for lowering bubble surface tension and causing CO2 to leave solution in a hurry.
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