Coca-Cola, one of the world’s most popular soft drinks, has a unique composition that lends itself to a variety of non-culinary applications. Its ingredients, such as phosphoric acid, carbonation, caffeine, and sugar, create a versatile product that can be used for cleaning, medicinal purposes, and even in scientific experiments. This article delves into twelve intriguing non-culinary uses of Coca-Cola, backed by scientific explanations and evidence.
1. Rust Removal
Scientific Basis: Coca-Cola contains phosphoric acid, a compound commonly used in rust removers. Phosphoric acid reacts with iron oxide (rust) to form a soluble compound, making it easier to clean.
Application: To remove rust from small objects, immerse the rusted item in Coca-Cola for a few hours. For larger surfaces, soak a cloth in Coca-Cola and apply it to the rusted area, then scrub with a brush.
2. Cleaning Toilets
Scientific Basis: The acidity of Coca-Cola, primarily from phosphoric acid, helps break down limescale and stains in toilets. The carbonation enhances the scrubbing action.
Application: Pour a can of Coca-Cola around the inside rim of the toilet bowl. Let it sit for an hour or more, then scrub with a toilet brush and flush.
3. Degreasing Engines
Scientific Basis: The acidic nature of Coca-Cola helps dissolve grease and grime, making it easier to clean engine parts. Its carbonation aids in loosening dirt.
Application: Pour Coca-Cola over greasy engine parts and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Scrub with a brush and rinse with water.
4. Pest Control
Scientific Basis: Coca-Cola’s high sugar content attracts pests, while its acidity can kill certain insects. The carbonation can also create an inhospitable environment for pests.
Application: Pour small amounts of Coca-Cola into shallow dishes and place them where pests are common. For ant control, pour Coca-Cola along ant trails.
5. Cleaning Coins
Scientific Basis: The phosphoric acid in Coca-Cola reacts with the tarnish (usually copper oxide) on coins, dissolving it and restoring the coin’s shine.
Application: Soak tarnished coins in a cup of Coca-Cola for several hours. Rinse them with water and dry with a soft cloth.
6. Removing Gum from Hair
Scientific Basis: The acidity of Coca-Cola helps break down the stickiness of gum, making it easier to remove from hair without damaging it.
Application: Soak the gum-covered hair in Coca-Cola for a few minutes. Gently work the gum out with your fingers and rinse the hair with water.
7. Loosening Bolts
Scientific Basis: The phosphoric acid in Coca-Cola helps dissolve rust and corrosion on metal, making it easier to loosen stubborn bolts.
Application: Pour Coca-Cola over the rusted bolt and let it sit for a few minutes. Use a wrench to try loosening the bolt.
8. Cleaning Glass
Scientific Basis: Coca-Cola’s acidic nature helps break down grime and dirt on glass surfaces, while its carbonation aids in scrubbing.
Application: Pour Coca-Cola onto a cloth and wipe down glass surfaces. Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth to avoid sticky residue.
9. Fertilizing Plants
Scientific Basis: Coca-Cola contains small amounts of sugar and caffeine, which can act as a mild fertilizer and growth stimulant for plants. However, it should be used sparingly.
Application: Dilute Coca-Cola with water (1 part Coca-Cola to 3 parts water) and pour it around the base of plants. Avoid direct application to leaves and flowers.
10. Neutralizing Jellyfish Stings
Scientific Basis: The acidity in Coca-Cola can help neutralize the toxins in a jellyfish sting, providing relief from pain and reducing inflammation.
Application: Pour Coca-Cola over the affected area immediately after being stung. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before rinsing with seawater.
11. Cleaning Battery Terminals
Scientific Basis: The phosphoric acid in Coca-Cola helps dissolve corrosion on battery terminals, improving electrical conductivity.
Application: Disconnect the battery cables and pour Coca-Cola over the corroded terminals. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush and rinse with water.
12. Defrosting Windshields
Scientific Basis: The acidity and carbonation in Coca-Cola help break down ice on windshields, making it easier to remove.
Application: Pour Coca-Cola over the icy windshield. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then scrape off the ice and wipe the windshield with a cloth.
Bottomline
Coca-Cola’s unique chemical composition makes it a surprisingly effective tool for a variety of non-culinary applications. And that should really be the only way that you use Coca-Cola in your house!
