Hooked on science: Re-create a grain bin explosion

It's a common scene out west, but grain bin explosions can happen right here in our part of the country. You can create your own by using a few items from around the house.

Do not attempt this experiment without adult supervision.

Materials

* Empty paint can

* Corn meal

* Several tea candles

* Grill lighter

* Rubber hose

Instructions

STEP 1: Cut a hole in the side of the can big enough so the hose will fit inside the can. Make sure the hole is close to the bottom of the can and that the hole is not too big.

STEP 2: Secure the hose into the hole in the side of the can.

STEP 3: Place a pile of corn meal inside the can and in front of the hose.

STEP 4: Place three of the candles inside the can.

STEP 5: Using the grill lighter, light the candles.

STEP 6: Secure the lid on the can and then quickly blow through the hose.

Explanation

The tiny particles of corn meal stirred up in the air became the ingredients for the fiery explosion.

Jason Lindsey is a Science Outreach Educator with Hooked on Science. Check out his website "Hooked On Science" at hooked onscience.org for webcasts and experiments that might get you hooked on science. Send him your science questions at jlindsey@hookedonscience.org. More science experiments can be found at www.semissourian.com.