Egg in a Bottle
To put an egg into a bottle and take it out intact using the properties of air pressure.
Theory & Background
Did you know that air around us has incredible properties? Variations in air pressure has widespread effects on every facet of our lives. While this process governs changes in weather, it also determines a variety of aspects pertaining to aerodynamics which are vital to modern day living.
Required Materials
- Egg
- Bottle
- Matchbox and matches
Estimated Time
Approximately 15 minutes
Step-By-Step Procedure
Boil the egg until it becomes hard-boiled (simmer for approximately 5to 7 minutes after the water comes to a boil)
Cool and remove the shell of the hard-boiled egg
Place the empty bottle on a flat surface
Drop a burning match into the bottle just before placing the egg on the mouth of the bottle
Experiment Tips
- Use a bottle with a mouth that is narrower than the girth of the egg.
Observation
The hard-boiled egg gets sucked into the bottle. On blowing into the bottle holding it upside down so that the egg falls into its neck, the egg pops out.
Result & Conclusion
The varied effects of variations in air pressure are clearly demonstrated here. By dropping a burning match into the bottle just before placing the boiled egg on its mouth, the flame burns up all the oxygen inside the bottle. This in turn creates a vacuum inside the bottle that sucks the egg into the bottle.