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Popcorn pops because each kernel is startled by the kernel next to it.

From the Food desk. Fact No. 024, printed Thursday, November 12, 2026.

False

Nobody knows which kernel goes first, and it has never owned up. The ones left at the bottom were too calm to join in.

Fig. 1. Kernels in a hot pan, after Snack Behaviour Letters. Correction: This diagram shows something that is not true.

According to the Snack Behaviour Letters, which also does not exist.

Filed under popcorn.

This story on the wire: JSON, Markdown.

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