What happens to an unhatched chicken egg?

1. Temperature:

* Room Temperature: At room temperature, an unfertilized egg will gradually deteriorate over time. The yolk will become more watery, the white will thin, and the air cell at the top will grow larger. This process happens more quickly at higher temperatures.

* Refrigeration: Storing an egg in the refrigerator can significantly slow down the deterioration process. It can last for several weeks, though the quality may decline over time.

2. Fertilization:

* Fertilized Egg: If an egg has been fertilized, the embryo inside will develop. However, without proper incubation, the embryo will eventually die. This typically occurs within a few days of laying.

* Unfertilized Egg: An unfertilized egg will simply remain as is, without any further development.

3. Time:

* Fresh Egg: A fresh, unfertilized egg will remain edible for several weeks if properly refrigerated.

* Older Egg: The longer an egg sits, the less appealing it becomes. The white will thin, the yolk will become runny, and the smell and flavor can change.

What happens to the egg itself:

* Spoilage: Over time, bacteria and fungi can grow in an egg, leading to spoilage. This can be identified by a foul odor, discoloration, and a runny consistency.

* Decomposition: Eventually, the egg will completely decompose, becoming a source of nutrients for microorganisms.

In summary:

* An unfertilized egg will gradually deteriorate over time, but can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks.

* A fertilized egg will not hatch without proper incubation and will eventually die.

* Ultimately, all eggs will eventually decompose.

It's important to note that eating spoiled eggs can cause food poisoning. Always check the appearance, smell, and consistency of an egg before consuming it.