Scientists Crack the Mystery of an Exploding Egg

D-brief
By Charles Choi
Dec 6, 2017 6:40 PMMay 17, 2019 9:35 PM
exploding-eggs
(Credit: Shutterstock)

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Scientists had an explosive mystery on their hands. A man suing a restaurant claimed an egg he bit into detonated loudly enough to damage his hearing. Was this a legit complaint, or an attempt to capitalize in a litigation-happy culture?

Well, after a scientific investigation, the man’s story is legit. Although microwave ovens have become a staple appliance in many kitchens, they come with oft-unheeded warnings that certain foods pose risks to people when reheated. Potatoes and eggs are among the most common culprits of potentially dangerous microwaving mishaps.

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