Hooked on Science: Popping Christmas ornament

Looking for a way to add a little science to the Christmas tree this year? Find out how to pop popcorn inside a clear glass ornament.

Materials

• Transparent glass ball ornament
• Popcorn kernels
• Brown paper bag

Instructions

STEP 1: Remove the metal catch and hook. Place about 2 teaspoons of popcorn kernels into the transparent glass ball ornament.

STEP 2: Put the transparent glass ball ornament into the brown paper bag. Fold down the brown paper bag.

STEP 3: Place the brown paper bag into the microwave for about two and a half minutes, remove, and observe.

Explantion

Each kernel of popcorn contains a tiny drop of water. When heated, the water expands. Once enough pressure builds up inside, the kernel burst open.

Jason Lindsey is a science outreach educator with Hooked on Science. Check out his website hookedonscience.org for webcasts and experiments.