Why does popcorn pop? In this video, Alex Dainis explains the science behind a tasty snack. When a popcorn kernel is heated, liquid water within the kernel expands into a gas. This causes the starchy interior to explode out of the hard outer shell, creating fluffy morsels. You can demonstrate this with science by weighing your popcorn kernels before and after popping: the difference in weight will be caused by the amount of water lost during the popping process!