Science project
Does Adding Salt to Pasta make it Cook Faster?
Pasta is often said to be Italy's most famous dish, but it's believed to have originated in China over 4,000 years ago. It's a dough that can be made into a variety of shapes, usually cooked by boiling. This experiment will measure the degree to which salt affects the cooking time of pasta.
Problem:
Does adding salt to pasta really help it cook faster?
Materials:
- Pasta (any shape, but keep the shapes in both pots the same)
- 2 stockpots (both identical)
- A stove
- A clock or timer
- 2 food thermometers
- Slotted spoon for stirring
- Water
- Salt
Procedure:
- Fill both pots with enough water, the more the better...as long as it doesn't overflow. About ¾ of the pot is a good measure.
- Set both pots on separate ranges.
- Add salt to one of the pots, about a teaspoon or two.
- Bring both pots to a rolling boil in the same heat setting.
- Stick 2 food thermometers in the pots, 1 in each. Watch the temperature rise.
- Add equal amounts of pasta in each pot. Give both pots a stir.
- Periodically check the pasta in both pots.
- See which one softens faster. Record the time.
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Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations on Education.com's liability.
Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.
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