======Custard Powder Explosion======


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**Alternative titles:** Dust Explosion Demonstration
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  -Make a small hole near the base of an empty coffee tin, approximately the same diameter as a short length of rubber or plastic tubing.  
  -Insert the tubing into the hole and seal it with plasticine or Blu Tack to prevent air leaks.  
  -Pour a small mound of custard powder into the tin so that it sits above the tubing opening.  
  -Place a lit tea-light candle inside the tin, opposite the tubing, and prepare to replace the lid.  
  -Once the candle is burning, secure the lid on top of the can.  
  -Blow a short, sharp puff of air through the tubing to disperse the custard powder into the air.  
  -Observe the ignition of the custard powder and the resulting shockwave or “fireball” inside the tin.



====Links==== 
Exploding Custard | I Didn't Know That - National Geographic: 
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The Exploding Custard Incident - Student Science - URNScienceShow: 
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====Variations====
  *Try substituting custard powder with other fine powders like flour or cornstarch to compare reaction intensity.  
  *Vary the amount of powder to observe how fuel quantity affects the size of the explosion.



====Safety Precautions====
  *Wear safety glasses and heat-resistant gloves.  
  *Conduct the experiment behind a safety screen or as a teacher-only demonstration.  
  *Ensure all observers stand well back from the setup.  
  *Do not use excessive amounts of custard powder.  
  *Perform only in a well-ventilated area away from flammable materials.  
  *Use a bulb or pump instead of blowing into the tube if possible.




====Questions to Consider====
  *What caused the custard powder to burn so quickly? (The fine particles dispersed in air have a large surface area, allowing rapid combustion.)  
  *How do you know gases were produced? (The expanding gases pushed air out, creating a visible shockwave.)  
  *Why do gases create more force than solids or liquids when heated? (Gases expand to occupy much more space.)  
  *How is this experiment similar to the ignition of gunpowder in a firearm? (Both involve rapid gas expansion that generates pressure and movement.)  
  *What everyday industrial safety concerns relate to this demonstration? (Dust explosions in factories handling flour, coal, or other fine powders.)