Popcorn Popping Quiz

What causes popcorn to pop?

• Heat causes the oil and water inside the kernel to create pressure.

• The kernel absorbs moisture from the air.

• The kernel is shaken vigorously.

• The kernel is exposed to cold temperatures.

Answer explanation

Heat causes the moisture inside the popcorn kernel to turn into steam, creating pressure. When the pressure exceeds the kernel's outer shell strength, it pops, turning inside out and forming the fluffy popcorn we eat.

What is the relationship between temperature and particle motion?

• Decreased temperature means particles have greater motion.

• Decreased temperature stops particle motion.

• Increased temperature means particles have greater motion.

• Increased temperature means particles have less motion.

• Temperature does not affect particle motion.

Answer explanation

Increased temperature causes particles to gain energy, leading to greater motion. This is why higher temperatures result in faster-moving particles, while lower temperatures reduce their kinetic energy and motion.

Why do some materials feel colder than others?

• Because they are heavier

• Because they are smoother

• Because they conduct heat differently

• Because they are more colorful

Answer explanation

Some materials feel colder because they conduct heat differently. Materials that conduct heat away from your skin quickly will feel colder, while those that insulate heat will feel warmer.

What is a particle?

• A large unit of matter

• A small unit of matter

• A type of liquid

• A type of gas

Answer explanation

A particle is defined as a small unit of matter, which can include atoms and molecules. The other options refer to larger units or specific states of matter, making 'a small unit of matter' the correct choice.

What causes food coloring to spread out in water?

• Gravity

• Diffusion

• Evaporation

• Condensation

Answer explanation

Food coloring spreads in water due to diffusion, which is the movement of particles from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. This process allows the color to evenly distribute throughout the water.

What is the movement of particles from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration called?

• Convection

• Diffusion

• Radiation

• Conduction

Answer explanation

The movement of particles from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration is called diffusion. This process occurs naturally as particles spread out to achieve equilibrium.

What happens to the particles in the container when the water and food coloring are at equal concentrations?

• The liquid becomes clear

• The liquid becomes one color

• The liquid evaporates

• The liquid freezes

Answer explanation

When water and food coloring are at equal concentrations, the particles mix uniformly, resulting in a single color throughout the liquid. This is why the correct answer is that the liquid becomes one color.

What is the ability to cause change called?

• Energy

• Mass

• Volume

• Density

Answer explanation

The ability to cause change is known as energy. It is the capacity to do work or produce change in a system, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

What is the term used to describe the energy of moving particles?

• Potential energy

• Thermal energy

• Kinetic energy

• Chemical energy

Answer explanation

The energy of moving particles is referred to as kinetic energy. It is the energy that an object possesses due to its motion, distinguishing it from potential energy, which is stored energy.

How does adding energy to particles affect their movement?

• It slows them down

• It stops them completely

• It increases their speed

• It has no effect

Answer explanation

Adding energy to particles increases their speed, causing them to move faster. This is due to the energy being converted into kinetic energy, which directly affects their motion.