Description
One of the easiest ways to get your kids interested in science is to show them how to make a tasty treat. In this experiment, we show you how chemical compounds can be broken down into different substances using only sugar, water and a pan. Taken from the book, "Science Experiments You Can Eat" by Vicki Cobbs, this experiment is easy, but should be conducted under adult supervision as it involves working over the stove.
Supplies
- 1/2 cup Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup cold water
Directions
- Pour 1/2 cup [brand:name] Extra Fine Granulated Sugar into a shallow pan and heat on medium-high while stirring. In about five to 10 minutes the sugar will start to melt and then will start to become darker and thinner.
- When it becomes straw-colored, you have a new substance....caramel!
- Turn the heat off and slowly add 1/2 cup cold water to the caramel. (Be careful when pouring the water because the caramel is hot and can splatter!)
- By cooling the caramel quickly with water, a brittle, edible candy will form...but keep stirring on low heat for about another ten minutes. The caramel chunk will soon dissolve into a carbon-water solution that is perfect for pouring into a cold glass of milk or using as a dip for fresh fruit slices.