Why Orange Peels Cause Balloons to Pop

James of The Action Lab (previously) squeezed a section of orange peel over a floating balloon, causing the balloon to instantly pop. Oranges contain limonene, a hydrocarbon component that makes latex substances very brittle when it comes in contact. As it turns out, limonene is also very flammable.

I show you what happens when you squirt an orange at a balloon.

Here’s the longer version of the video that explains more about limonene.

Lori Dorn
Lori Dorn

Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry, playing guitar, taking photos and mixing craft cocktails.