Mountain Dew is a popular carbonated beverage that has gained quite a following over the years. While it is loved by many for its unique taste and refreshing qualities, there have been rumors circulating about whether or not Mountain Dew is flammable. In this article, we will investigate the truth behind these claims.
The Flammable Ingredients:
Before we dive into whether or not Mountain Dew is flammable, let’s take a look at its ingredients. Mountain Dew contains carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, concentrated orange juice, citric acid, natural and artificial flavors, sodium benzoate, caffeine, and brominated vegetable oil (BVO). Out of these ingredients, the one that raises eyebrows is BVO.
BVO is a chemical that helps to give Mountain Dew and other citrus-flavored drinks their cloudy appearance. It is added to prevent the flavoring from separating from the rest of the liquid. BVO contains bromine, a halogen element that is known for its flammable properties. This fact has led to speculation that Mountain Dew might be flammable due to the inclusion of BVO.
The Myth Busted:
Now, let’s address the burning question at hand: Is Mountain Dew flammable? The answer, fortunately, is no. Despite containing BVO, Mountain Dew is not flammable. The concentration of bromine in BVO is so low that it is not enough to make Mountain Dew flammable.
In fact, the amount of BVO used in Mountain Dew is well below the level that would be required for the drink to become flammable. BVO is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and can be used as a food additive in specific quantities deemed safe for consumption.
Credit: issuu.com
Misunderstandings and Urban Legends:
So why do people believe that Mountain Dew is flammable? There are a few possible reasons for this common misconception. Firstly, BVO has been linked to some health concerns, which has led to the spreading of rumors about its flammability.
Secondly, there have been viral videos circulating on the internet showing Mountain Dew being used as a flamethrower or an explosive. However, these videos typically involve adding other substances, such as potassium, to Mountain Dew to create a flammable reaction.
It is important to note that adding potentially dangerous substances to any beverage can create hazardous reactions, regardless of whether the base liquid is flammable or not. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution and not attempt such experiments at home.
Credit: www.amazon.com
It’s All About Chemistry:
To understand why Mountain Dew is not flammable, we need to take a quick dive into chemistry. Flammability depends on a substance’s flashpoint, which is the lowest temperature at which it can ignite. The flashpoint of a substance is related to its chemical makeup.
Mountain Dew’s combination of ingredients, including the low concentration of bromine in BVO, results in a flashpoint that is well above room temperature. This means that Mountain Dew will not catch fire, even if exposed to an open flame or high heat.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the rumors about Mountain Dew being flammable are nothing more than urban legends. While Mountain Dew does contain BVO, a chemical that contains a flammable element, the quantity of BVO used is not enough to make the beverage itself flammable.
It is always important to fact-check and question information before believing and sharing it with others. In the case of Mountain Dew’s flammability, you can rest assured that enjoying a can of this popular beverage will not put you at risk of starting a fire.
Frequently Asked Questions For Is Mountain Dew Flammable? Discover The Shocking Truth!
Is Mountain Dew Flammable?
Yes, Mountain Dew is flammable because it contains additives like sodium benzoate and vitamin C, which can be combustible.
Can Mountain Dew Explode?
No, Mountain Dew cannot explode on its own. However, if you mix it with certain substances like Mentos, it can create a reaction that causes an explosion.
Does Mountain Dew Have Alcohol?
No, Mountain Dew does not contain any alcohol. It is a non-alcoholic carbonated drink that is primarily made up of caffeine, sugar, and other additives.
Is Mountain Dew Bad For Your Health?
Yes, excessive consumption of Mountain Dew can be harmful to your health due to its high sugar content and caffeine levels. It can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and increased risk of chronic diseases.