changes in egg density

[kel2]

Just a quick question. I know this sounds simple, but I read the archives about this and the answer seems to be that boiling does not change density. We have tried it a few times, and each time the eggs weigh exactly 1 gram more after boiling. Our volume measurement is not as precise due to the equipment. Is it just that our results are wihtin the margin of error because the equipment is not sensitive enough, or could there be a slight change?

Thank you for your time. I am sure these simple questions can get tiresome.

[paulsdecarli]

I don't think the volume of the egg would change. However, there is a possibility that the egg would absorb water through a small crack or pore as it cools from boiling temperature. It seems to me that the air space at the end of a hard boiled egg has a volume of about 1 cubic centimeter, and one cc of water would add a gram to the weight..

[Louise]

I don't think the volume of the egg would change. However, there is a possibility that the egg would absorb water through a small crack or pore as it cools from boiling temperature. It seems to me that the air space at the end of a hard boiled egg has a volume of about 1 cubic centimeter, and one cc of water would add a gram to the weight..

I think this is possible, though I think diffusion in and out of the airspace is very slow.

I think it is more likely that the egg is still wet when you measure it. The shell is rough and difficult to dry. If you use eggs from the fridge, they have basically been in a dehumidifier since you purchased the, so there should be little water on the shell.

If you have access to compressed air or nitrogen, you might want to test this theory with a few eggs. Dry with a towel, or however you do this, and then blow with air for set amounts of time. See if the weight gets lighter.

Also, you could weigh the same object 100 times on your balance, calculate the average and the standard deviation, and see if you have a variation sufficient to explain a 1 gram change. I would imagine most household scales do not measure well at this level- even a food scale. A lab balance is more likely to be good for this.

Louise

[kel2]

Thank you very much. I appreciate your speedy response. That makes sense. Have a good day.

[Louise]

Thank you very much. I appreciate your speedy response. That makes sense. Have a good day.

Let us know what you find. This is interesting, especially if you verify that there is a density change!

Louise

[kel2]

I'm sure we're on the edge of a great discovery! Thanks again to you both.