Yes, Sprite works with Mentos.
The reaction that creates a geyser when Mentos are dropped into soda is not exclusive to cola or diet cola. Based on the provided information, the trick works with any carbonated beverage.
Understanding the Reaction
The phenomenon occurs because of the physical interaction between the surface of the Mentos candy and the dissolved carbon dioxide gas in the soda. The Mentos candy has a rough, porous surface with many tiny pits (called nucleation sites). These sites provide places for the dissolved CO₂ gas to quickly form bubbles. As these bubbles form rapidly on the surface of the sinking Mentos, they rise to the top, pushing the liquid out of the bottle.
Why Sprite Works
Since Sprite is a carbonated beverage, it contains dissolved carbon dioxide gas, just like other sodas. The reference explicitly states that the trick works with "any carbonated beverage" and lists examples including "regular cola, orange soda, root beer, etc." and adds, "However, you can use seltzer water... or any soda."
As Sprite falls under the category of "any soda" and is carbonated, it will indeed react with Mentos to create the geyser effect.
Examples of Carbonated Beverages Mentioned or Implied to Work:
- Regular cola
- Orange soda
- Root beer
- Tonic water
- Seltzer water
- Any soda (including Sprite)
| Beverage Type | Carbonated? | Works with Mentos? (Based on Reference) |
|---|---|---|
| Sprite | Yes | Yes (as "any soda") |
| Regular Cola | Yes | Yes |
| Orange Soda | Yes | Yes |
| Root Beer | Yes | Yes |
| Tonic Water | Yes | Yes |
| Seltzer Water | Yes | Yes |
| Non-carbonated Juice | No | No (Implied - trick requires carbonation) |
In conclusion, if you're planning to try the Mentos and soda experiment, Sprite is a suitable choice because it is a carbonated soda, and the reaction is effective with any carbonated drink.
