Have you ever wondered ... WHY???


... popcorn pops?

Popcorn, a variety of Indian corn called Zea mays everta, is different from ordinary corn in that it has a harder outer shell. As the corn is heated, moisture in its starchy grains is converted to steam, causing a tremendous pressure to be exerted against the shell. The tough shell stands up under the pressure for a while but eventually breaks down and the kernel explodes with such force that is throws out its while, pulpy insides, making an audible popping sound in the process.



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