The Science of Why Popcorn Pops
Popcorn isn’t just a movie-night favorite, it’s a tiny science experiment in every kernel. Have you ever wondered why popcorn pops while other grains, like rice or wheat, just sizzle or burn? The answer lies in physics, chemistry, and a little bit of magic happening inside each kernel. Let’s crack open the science behind this delicious explosion. 🔍 Inside a Kernel : A Pressure Cooker in Disguise At first glance, popcorn kernels look ordinary just small, hard seeds. But each one is perfectly engineered by nature to become fluffy popcorn: The Shell (Pericarp): Tough and airtight, it locks everything in. The Starch: A soft, dense core that becomes the fluffy white stuff we eat. The Water: About 14% moisture is trapped inside, hidden like a secret. When you heat the kernel, that water transforms into steam . Because the shell is so strong, the pressure keeps building until the kernel can’t take it anymore. 💥 POP! The shell bursts, releasing the steam and expandin...