Why does cotton candy dissolve so fast?

1. Low density and surface area: Cotton candy has a low density, meaning it is mostly made of air. This means it has a large surface area exposed to the surrounding environment. The increased surface area allows for faster dissolution.

2. High sugar content: Cotton candy contains a high concentration of sugar, which is hydrophilic. This means sugar attracts and absorbs water molecules, causing the cotton candy to dissolve rapidly when it comes into contact with moisture.

3. Thin strands: Cotton candy is composed of thin strands, each with a small cross-sectional area. The thinness of the strands means they have a higher surface area-to-volume ratio, allowing for faster dissolution.

4. Saliva: When you put cotton candy in your mouth, saliva plays a crucial role in dissolving it. Saliva contains enzymes such as amylase, which breaks down carbohydrates like the sugar in cotton candy. This enzymatic activity accelerates the dissolution process.