Why Popcorn Pops

Popcorn is a favorite snack for movie nights both at home and at the theater. But what is the science behind this light and fluffy snack? Not just any kernel can turn into popcorn. The perfect popcorn kernel has to have the right percentage of water, a starchy middle, and a hard shell with no cracks in it. Then, when the kernels are heated up, the water turns to steam which creates pressure inside the kernel. The starch heats up and turns into a sort of gel that pops out of the hard shell and immediately cools down and hardens upon hitting the air. Thus, we have popcorn.