Experiment On Putting An Egg In Vinegar

The shell of an egg consists of mostly calcium carbonate, while vinegar is just acetic acid. Combining these two materials provides a great example of an acid-base reaction. The acid (vinegar) and base (eggshell) react to produce carbon dioxide, water and dissolved calcium. The experiment also provides a unique opportunity to view and handle a "naked" egg.

Step 1

Place one or more eggs in a clear glass or plastic container large enough to easily accommodate the eggs.

Step 2

Pour vinegar into the container, adding enough to completely cover the eggs. Observe the immediate interaction between the vinegar and the eggshell. Cover the container and put it in the refrigerator.

Step 3

After 24 hours, carefully scoop the eggs out of the container, pour out the vinegar, return the eggs to the container, and add new vinegar to cover the eggs. Return container to the refrigerator.

Step 4

After another 24 hours, scoop the eggs from the vinegar and rinse them with water. The eggshell will have dissolved away, leaving the flexible membrane still intact around the naked egg. Handle and examine the eggs, but be careful not to break the membrane or the raw egg will ooze out.