Re: How does air pressure and temperature affect the popping of popcorn

Dear Stella,

Air pressure and temperature do affect the popping of popcorn. Popcorn pops because the moisture inside kernel heats and becomes steam. The steam forces the popcorn open. Popcorn pops best at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, if it is cooked at a lower temperature, the popcorn will not pop fully. If it is popped at a higher temperature, it will burn. Air pressure affects the boiling point of water which will then affect how the popcorn pops.

Try experimenting with microwave popcorn. Cook it at the suggested temperature and time. Count the number of popped and unpopped pieces. Then cook the popcorn at a lower temperature. Count the number of popped and unpopped pieces. Compare your results.

Here is some further information, and a fun website about popcorn:

http://www.popcorn.org/mpindex.htm

Good luck!