Boiling chips or bumping pebbles are small bits of an inert solid added to a liquid during boiling to prevent 'bumping' or an uncontrollable boiling. These chips disrupt small bubbles on their surfaces, and thus prevent them from sudden bursts.

Typically porous in nature, boiling chips are made of alumina or silicon carbide, and are approximately the size of small popcorn kernels. When these are added to a boiling liquid, they will cause any large bubbles that begin to form to break up and release more surface area for additional bubbles to form, thus promoting smooth boiling of the liquid.

While boiling chips play a crucial role in preventing bumping, it's essential to handle these components with caution. Always allow them to cool down before removing them from the liquid. Additionally, be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves, when adding or removing them as a safety precaution.

Overall, boiling chips serve as a simple yet effective tool for ensuring a more controlled boiling process in the laboratory.