What happens when you shake the soda and open it?

When you shake a can of soda and then open it, the dissolved carbon dioxide gas in the liquid rapidly escapes, causing a sudden expansion of the remaining gas and the formation of a large number of tiny bubbles. This bubbly foam can overflow the can and create a fizzy mess, potentially spraying soda out and leaving behind a sticky residue.

Here's a more detailed explanation of the process:

1. Agitation: Shaking the soda can increases the surface area of the liquid and introduces turbulence. This agitation causes more dissolved carbon dioxide gas to come out of the solution and form small bubbles.

2. Pressure Buildup: Shaking the can traps air inside and increases the pressure within the container. This higher pressure further enhances the release of carbon dioxide from the liquid.

3. Supersaturation: With increased pressure and more carbon dioxide dissolved in the soda, the liquid becomes supersaturated. This means it can hold more dissolved gas than it normally would at the same temperature and pressure.

4. Rapid Expansion: When you open the can, the pressure is suddenly released, allowing the dissolved gas to escape rapidly. The tiny bubbles formed during agitation grow rapidly, pushing against the liquid surface.

5. Overflow and Fizzy Mess: As the bubbles rise and expand, they create a foam that rises rapidly. The foam can overflow the can and spill out, especially if the can is already full to the brim. The expanding gas also contributes to the characteristic "fizz" sound of opening a shaken soda can.

6. Sticky Residue: The spilled soda can leave behind a sticky residue on the can's surface, surrounding areas, and even on your clothes if you're unlucky enough to get caught in the spray. This residue is mainly composed of sugar and other dissolved solids present in the soda.

To avoid this fizzy eruption, it's recommended to allow a shaken soda can to sit still for a few moments before opening it. This gives the bubbles a chance to rise to the surface gradually and dissipate, reducing the chances of an overflow.