Active Time
20-30 minutes
Total Project Time
20-30 minutes
Key Concepts
Light, static electricity, fluorescence
Pliers are used to crush a Life-Savers mint

Introduction

Did you know that instances of miniature lightning can occur in your mouth when you bite on a hard candy? Would it not be fascinating if you could observe these light flashes? Life Savers® Wint O Green® mints might just be the tool we need to observe this science! Crush them, observe, and detect what makes the flashes visible. How many sparks can you see?

Credits

Sabine De Brabandere, PhD, Science Buddies
This activity is not appropriate for use as a science fair project. Good science fair projects have a stronger focus on controlling variables, taking accurate measurements, and analyzing data. To find a science fair project that is just right for you, browse our library of over 1,200 Science Fair Project Ideas or use the Topic Selection Wizard to get a personalized project recommendation.
Next: Materials

Materials

  • Life Savers Mints- Wint O Green
  • Sugar Free Life Savers Mints- Wint O Green
  • Life Savers Mints- Spear O Mint® and/or Pep O Mint®
  • Other hard candy (optional)
  • Pliers
  • Dark room
  • Optional: mirror
    $item.AltText

    $item.AriaDescription

Next: Instructions

Reviews

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Active Time
20-30 minutes
Total Project Time
20-30 minutes
Key Concepts
Light, static electricity, fluorescence
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