Discovery Labs: BOUNCY EGG

OBJECTIVE:

Understand how vinegar interacts with an eggshell through a chemical reaction and observe its physical effects.

What do you think will happen if you put an egg in vinegar?

WHAT YOU NEED:

• Raw egg

• Clear glass or jar

• White vinegar

• Spoon

• Plate or bowl

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Carefully place the raw egg into the glass or jar.

2. Pour enough vinegar into the jar to completely cover the egg.

3. Observe the bubbles forming on the eggshell immediately.

4. Leave the egg in the vinegar for 24 hours, then carefully pour off the vinegar and replace it with fresh vinegar. Let it sit for another 24 hours.

5. After 48 hours, gently remove the egg with a spoon and rinse it under cool water.

6. Place the egg on a plate or bowl and gently bounce it from a low height (about 1-2 inches).

   
   

OBSERVATION:

After soaking in vinegar, the eggshell dissolves, leaving a rubbery, translucent egg that bounces slightly when dropped from a low height.

EXPLANATION: Why Does the Egg Become Bouncy?

Eggshells are made primarily of calcium carbonate. Vinegar, which contains acetic acid, reacts with calcium carbonate to produce calcium acetate, water, and carbon dioxide gas (the bubbles you see). This chemical reaction dissolves the eggshell, leaving behind a flexible membrane that can bounce slightly without breaking.

CONCLUSION:

This experiment illustrates chemical reactions between acids and calcium carbonate and demonstrates changes in material properties through chemical processes. It’s an engaging way to understand chemical reactions, acids and bases, and the physical properties of membranes.

EXTENSION:

• Try soaking eggs in vinegar for different amounts of time to observe variations in the shell’s dissolving process.

• Experiment with other acidic liquids like lemon juice or cola to see if they produce the same effect.

• Discuss how acids affect calcium carbonate in real-world situations like acid rain on statues or buildings

DOWNLOAD A PDF OF THE EXPERIMENT