Popcorn Science

Kernel

[kuhr-nuhl]

The name for a small piece of corn. An ear of corn has many kernels.

Charles B. Ming Onn/Shutterstock.com

steam

[steem]

The gas that is formed when water boils

Nikita Sobolkov/Fotolia

hull

[huhl]

The outer covering of certain fruits or seeds

Illustration by Marybeth Rivera

Starch

[stahrch]

Starch is white and has no smell or taste. It’s found in food like corn, potatoes, rice, and bread. When the starch in a popcorn kernel is heated, it gets big and white and fluffy.

iStockPhoto/Getty Images

Explore This Issue

Extend the Lesson

Go To Your Magazine

Help/Support

About Us