Diy magic: witness the fizzing wonder of corn starch in water
What To Know
- Corn starch is a polysaccharide, a complex carbohydrate made up of many glucose molecules linked together.
- When corn starch is mixed with water, the water molecules penetrate the starch granules and cause them to swell and burst.
- What should I do if I get corn starch on my skin.
Corn starch, a common kitchen staple, is often used as a thickener for sauces, soups, and gravies. But what happens when you mix corn starch with water? Does it fizz like baking soda and vinegar? The answer may surprise you.
The Chemistry of Corn Starch
Corn starch is a polysaccharide, a complex carbohydrate made up of many glucose molecules linked together. When corn starch is mixed with water, the water molecules penetrate the starch granules and cause them to swell and burst. This process is called gelatinization.
Does Corn Starch Fizz in Water?
No, corn starch does not fizz in water. This is because the chemical reaction that occurs when corn starch is mixed with water does not produce any gas. The gelatinization process simply causes the starch granules to swell and thicken the water.
What Happens When You Mix Corn Starch and Water?
When you mix corn starch and water, the following happens:
- The water molecules penetrate the starch granules.
- The starch granules swell and burst.
- The starch molecules form a thick gel.
Uses of Corn Starch and Water Gel
The corn starch and water gel has various uses, including:
- Thickening sauces and soups: The gel can be used to thicken sauces, soups, and gravies.
- Making slime: The gel can be used to make slime, a popular children’s toy.
- Treating burns: The gel can be used to treat minor burns by cooling and soothing the skin.
Safety Precautions
Corn starch is generally safe to use, but there are a few safety precautions to keep in mind:
- Do not ingest large amounts of corn starch.
- Do not use corn starch to treat severe burns.
- If you have any concerns about using corn starch, consult with a healthcare professional.
Recommendations
Corn starch does not fizz in water because the chemical reaction that occurs does not produce any gas. Instead, the corn starch granules swell and burst, forming a thick gel. This gel has various uses, including thickening sauces and soups, making slime, and treating minor burns.
Questions You May Have
Q: Why doesn’t corn starch fizz in water?
A: Because the chemical reaction that occurs does not produce any gas.
Q: What happens when you mix corn starch and water?
A: The corn starch granules swell and burst, forming a thick gel.
Q: What are some uses of corn starch and water gel?
A: Thickening sauces and soups, making slime, and treating minor burns.
Q: Is corn starch safe to use?
A: Yes, corn starch is generally safe to use, but it is important to follow the safety precautions.
Q: What should I do if I accidentally ingest corn starch?
A: If you ingest a small amount of corn starch, it is unlikely to cause any harm. However, if you ingest a large amount, you should seek medical attention.
Q: What should I do if I get corn starch on my skin?
A: If you get corn starch on your skin, simply wash it off with soap and water.
Q: Can I use corn starch to treat severe burns?
A: No, you should not use corn starch to treat severe burns. Instead, you should seek medical attention.