<P> This reaction is very exothermic , and the released energy raises the temperature of the mixture to near 100 ° C , vaporizing about a fifth of it . The resultant pressure buildup forces the entrance valves from the reactant storage chambers to close , thus protecting the beetle 's internal organs . The boiling , foul - smelling liquid is expelled violently through an outlet valve , with a loud popping sound . The beetles ' glands store enough hydroquinone and hydrogen peroxide to allow the beetle to release its chemical spray roughly 20 times . In some cases this is enough to kill a predator . The main component of the beetle spray is 1 , 4 - Benzoquinone , which is particularly irritating to the eyes and the respiratory system . </P>
why is the bombardier beetle not harmed by the chemicals it stores
resultant pressure buildup forces the entrance valves from the reactant storage chambers to close