Caramel Chemistry

Materials:

• Sugar
• Measuring cup
• Nonstick pan
• Stove
• Large wooden spoon
• Water

Procedure:

1. Measure ½ cup sugar into a deep nonstick pan
2. Place the pan on the stove over low heat
3. Continuously stir the sugar as you gradually increase the heat
4. Remove the pan from the heat when the sugar is yellowish
5. Slowly add ½ cup of water to the caramel
6. Place the pan back on the stove over low heat, and stir the mixture until the caramel dissolves in the water
7. When it has cooled, taste the mixture!

Explanation:

Caramel is a combination of sugar and carbon. The sugar has been converted to caramel through a chemical reaction. If you heat the sugar too long, it will turn the dark brown color of carbon and lose all of its sweetness- an interesting chemical change but not very tasty!

Source: 1001 Ways to Explore Science and Nature