Barking dog reaction

The "Barking Dog" is an exothermic chemical reaction that results from the ignition of a mixture of carbon disulfide and nitrous oxide.^[1] When ignited in a cylindrical tube, the reaction produces a bright flash and a loud "woof" - reminiscent of a barking dog.

Video of a barking dog reaction by Maxim Bilovitskiy

In simple terms, the 'Barking Dog' reaction is a combustion process, in which a fuel (carbon disulfide, CS₂) reacts with an oxidizing agent (nitrous oxide, N₂O), producing heat and elemental sulfur. The flame front in the reaction is a zone of very hot, luminous gas, produced by the reactants decomposing.

8 N₂O + 4 CS₂ → S₈ + 4 CO₂ + 8 N₂

In April 1853, Justus von Liebig performed the demonstration in front of the Bavarian royal family; however, the glass container shattered, and shards of glass inflicted minor injuries on the faces of Queen Therese, her son Prince Luitpold, and Liebig himself.^[2][3]