How to Crush a Can With Hot Water

Soda cans can easily be crushed using steam.

Using hot water vapors to crush a soda can is an entertaining experiment that can teach children about air pressure. The experiment can be quickly conducted with only a minimal amount of materials needed. Steam inside the can condenses into liquid water, causing the air pressure outside the can to be greater than that inside the can. This creates a small vacuum inside the can and the air pressure outside the can is strong enough to crush it.

Things You'll Need

• Soda can
• Stove top
• Tongs
• Bowl
• Water

Instructions

1. Clean the inside of the can to remove any soda residue.

2. Fill a bowl with cold water. Place about a tablespoon of water into the can.

3. Place the can on the stove top element and turn it on high. Heat the water for about 30 seconds to one minute after you begin to hear the water boiling and see steam coming out of the can.

4. Pick the hot can up with a pair of tongs, making sure you have a secure grip. Quickly flip the can upside down, placing it top-first into the bowl of cold water. The can will instantly implode in on itself.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful not to burn yourself while handling the can on the stove top.

References

• Steve Spangler Science: The Incredible Can Crusher
• Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences: Hot Water Vapor Fills Can