Concepts

Air pressure

Overview

The water in the can is boiled to displace the air and the cap is screwed on. When the water vapor condenses, the can is crushed.

Details

Equipment

• [1] Hot plate
• [1] Tin quart sized can with a screw cap
• Water

Safety Equipment

• [1] Safety glasses
• [2] Safety glove

Important Notes

• Do not burn yourself on the hot plate, the can or the boiling water.
• Be sure to turn off the hot plate when done.

Script

1. Put on the safety equipment.
2. Remove the cap and fill the can approximately 75% full of water.
3. Place the can on the hot plate.
4. Turn the hot plate on to high. Wait for the water to come to a full boil.
5. Turn off the hot plate and screw the cap back on the can.
6. Wait for the can to cool. When the water vapor condenses, the can will crush.

Additional Resources