Popcorn + Science = POPTASTIC !!!

During science class today, I made popcorn in a lab. It may seem simple, but it is all science. The process from a kernel to a popcorn is called radiation. My group put a bag of kernels in the microwave. We set the microwave at 1 minute and 30 seconds. After about 40 seconds, the kernels suddenly begin to start popping rapidly for the rest of the time. The reason for this is because in every single kernel, there is a drop of water. When that little droplet of water is heated, air pressure automatically increases. Warm air starts to rise quickly. Steam is flowing from the kernel and immediately the kernel POPS!!! Steam needs to rise out, thus, breaking(popping) through the kernel and causing it to turn into popcorn. In addition, a magnificent process known as radiation has just occurred. When the time ended, the bag was full of delicious popcorn to enjoy.