Freezing a soda will cause its top and bottom to bulge

In summary, freezing a soda can will cause the water (soda) to freeze and expand, creating more volume and increasing the pressure inside the can. This causes the can to bulge out, but it does not contract measurably. This phenomenon is due to the fact that ice is less dense than water.
  • #1
phynoob
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Freezing the soda can will makes the soda can contract, thus increasing the pressure of the soda. P=F/a.
However, as pressure had increase, to the air particles in the soda can will have more frequent collision and cause the bulging to reduce the increased pressure?

Am i on the right track?
Thx in advance for the input!~ :D
 
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  • #2
No, the can does not contract measurably. The water (soda) freezes, and ice is less dense than water (that's why ice cubes float). The ice takes up more volume than the unfrozen water did, forcing the can to bulge out.

BTW, questions like this would be more appropriate to the Intro Physics forum.
 
  • #3
hi marcusl!,

thanks for the super prompt reply.
understood now.thanks! ;)
 

FAQ: Freezing a soda will cause its top and bottom to bulge

Why does a soda bulge at the top and bottom when frozen?

When a soda is frozen, the liquid inside expands as it turns into ice. This expansion creates pressure within the bottle, causing the top and bottom to bulge outwards.

Does this happen with all types of soda?

Yes, this phenomenon occurs with all types of soda. Any liquid that is able to freeze and expand will cause a bulging effect when contained in a sealed bottle or can.

Can this bulging cause the bottle to burst?

Yes, if the bottle is not able to withstand the pressure from the expanding liquid, it can burst. This is why it is not recommended to freeze a soda in a glass bottle or can as it may shatter.

Is it safe to drink a soda that has been frozen and bulged?

It is generally safe to consume a frozen and bulged soda as long as the bottle has not burst. However, the taste and carbonation may be affected due to the expansion of the liquid and the potential for the bottle to have been compromised.

Can I prevent a soda from bulging when frozen?

The best way to prevent a soda from bulging when frozen is to leave some room for expansion in the bottle. This can be done by opening the cap slightly or pouring out a small amount of liquid before placing it in the freezer. Alternatively, storing the soda in a freezer-safe container with room for expansion can also prevent bulging.

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