At What Temperature Do Soda Cans Explode?
Leaving a soda can in a hot environment can lead to a surprising and messy outcome: an explosion. This phenomenon is a common concern, particularly during warmer months or in enclosed spaces like vehicles, where temperatures can rise quickly.
Temperature Threshold for Can Rupture
Soda cans typically rupture when internal temperatures reach approximately 140 degrees Fahrenheit (around 60 degrees Celsius) or higher. While there is no single, exact temperature that applies to all cans due to variations in design and contents, this range represents a common threshold for failure. For instance, studies have shown that a car’s interior can quickly reach temperatures of 143 degrees Fahrenheit (about 61.7 degrees Celsius) on a 100-degree Fahrenheit day, creating conditions ripe for can explosions.
The Physics of Internal Pressure
Heat significantly impacts the internal pressure within a sealed soda can. As the temperature of the beverage increases, the molecules within the liquid gain kinetic energy, moving faster and colliding more frequently and forcefully with the can’s interior walls. A primary contributor to this pressure increase is the carbon dioxide (CO2) dissolved in the soda. Carbon dioxide is less soluble in warmer liquids, meaning that as the temperature rises, more of the dissolved CO2 escapes the liquid and turns into gas. This additional gas accumulates in the small empty space, known as the headspace, at the top of the can, dramatically increasing the internal pressure until the container can no longer contain it.
Variables Influencing Can Failure
Several factors can influence the precise temperature at which a soda can might rupture. The carbonation level of the beverage plays a significant role, as drinks with higher initial carbonation contain more dissolved CO2, leading to greater internal pressure buildup when heated. The can’s construction also matters; while typically made of durable aluminum alloys, manufacturing imperfections or variations in metal thickness can create weak points. The can’s design often incorporates a top that is engineered to deform or rupture first, acting as a safety mechanism to release pressure.
The amount of headspace, or the empty volume above the liquid in the can, also influences rupture risk. A smaller headspace leaves less room for the expanding gas, causing pressure to escalate more rapidly. In unusual circumstances, a significant drop in external atmospheric pressure, such as during air transport at high altitudes, can also exacerbate internal pressure, increasing the risk of rupture.
Real-World Risks and Prevention
Soda cans are commonly exposed to high temperatures in various scenarios. An exploding can can create a considerable mess, covering surfaces with sticky liquid. There is also a potential for minor injury from sharp aluminum edges if the can fragments, or simply from the startling noise and spray.
To prevent such incidents, it is advisable to store soda cans in cool, shaded environments. Avoid leaving them in vehicles, garages, or other enclosed spaces where temperatures can climb significantly. If a can has been exposed to high heat, allow it to cool down gradually in a safe location before handling or opening it.