Kitchen Science: Why Does This Happen?

Cooking is full of science! From the way bread rises to why onions make you cry, many everyday kitchen moments have fascinating explanations. You don’t need to be a scientist — just a curious cook — to enjoy the fun facts behind the food. In this quiz, you’ll explore the chemistry, physics, and biology at work in your kitchen. You’ll learn why eggs turn solid, how baking powder works, and much more. The next time you cook, you might see your ingredients in a whole new way. Ready to stir up some kitchen knowledge? Let’s start!
No. 1 /10
Why does bread rise in the oven?

Yeast produces carbon dioxide
Water evaporates
Butter melts
Heat expands flour
No. 2 /10
Why do onions make you cry?

They release sulfur compounds
They contain acids
They produce steam
They absorb moisture
No. 3 /10
Why does sugar turn brown when heated?

Caramelization
Fermentation
Oxygenation
Gelatinization
No. 4 /10
Why do eggs turn solid when cooked?

Proteins denature and link
Fats melt
Water evaporates
Air gets trapped
No. 5 /10
Why do cakes rise when baked?

Leavening agents produce gas
Sugar melts
Fat expands
Water freezes
No. 6 /10
Why does pasta stick together when cooked without stirring?

Starch forms a sticky layer
Proteins harden
Fat melts unevenly
Water gets trapped
No. 7 /10
Why does salt lower the freezing point of water?

It disrupts water molecule bonds
It absorbs heat
It increases air pressure
It blocks light
No. 8 /10
Why do popcorn kernels pop?

Water inside turns to steam
Air expands
Oil explodes
Proteins stretch
No. 9 /10
Why do pickles stay preserved?

Acid prevents bacteria growth
Salt draws in moisture
Cold air blocks bacteria
Sugars coat them
No. 10 /10
Why do metal pans heat faster than glass?

Metal conducts heat better
Glass blocks heat
Metal reflects light
Glass contains air
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