Crush the soda can

Back to 2B - Statics of fluids
PIRA index: 2B30.15

Description

Rapid cooling of steam will cause a can to be crushed by the surrounding air pressure.

Equipment

• 4L beaker
• water/ice
• Empty soda can
• tongs
• heat source(torch or hot plate)

Instructions

Fill the beaker with cold water(optional: add ice). Fill the bottom of the can with approx. 1 cm of water. Holding the can with tongs, heat the can from below. Once the water in can is boiling and the can is filled with steam, dip the can the beaker with opening facing down, sealing the steam inside the can with the water. The can should be crushed almost instantly.

Keywords

soda can, crush, air pressure, steam