You will need:
- Seltzer Water
- Popcorn Kernels
- A Clear Container
What to do:
- Fill the container with seltzer water
- Add the kernels and watch them dance!
How does it work?
Popcorn kernels naturally sink in water. Seltzer water is full of dissolved carbon dioxide gas that is released when you open the seltzer bottle. When you add the kernels into the water the carbon dioxide bubbles attached to the kernels causing them to float to the surface. When the kernels reach the surface, the bubbles pop – without bubbles the kernels start to sink again and the process is repeated until enough carbon dioxide is released.
Make it an experiment:
The project above is a DEMONSTRATION. To make it a true experiment, you can try to answer these questions:
- Does the size/height of the container affect how the kernels rise or sink?
- Does the demonstration work with other carbonated beverages?
- Does the temperature of the seltzer affect the rising and falling of the kernels?
