You are here:
Chemistry (including Biochemistry)/chemisrty
Advertisement
Question
Hi - Im trying to help my daughter and I havent been able to get a clear answer for this (Im no good at chemistry). Why is it on a hot day, Im talkin steamy humid, does salt in the salt shaker clump up. Thank you!
Salt in its pure form will form a solid block or large clumps naturally. The reason the salt in the shaker does not lump up is the presence of sugar and drying agents (anti-caking - calcium silicate, read the label, it isn't pure salt). These help the particles of salt actually stay apart from each other. When it is very humid, water basically "fogs" out on the salt. This allows the drying agents to absorb water above their capacity and the salt particles can start lumping together.
- Add to this Answer
- Ask a Question
| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thanks for the help! | ||
Related Articles
Answers by Expert:
Dr. Henry Boyter, Jr.
Expertise
No homework, biochemistry, or other schoolwork! The question will be rejected. If you have not searched www.google.com, do so before posting. If you are a student, give your grade and course. Everyone, explain the purpose and context for the question.
Experience in the area
Chemistry (non-biochemistry), environmental science, occupational health and safety, environmental regulation and management, environmental engineering, and wastewater engineering. I'm the Director of Environmental, Health, and Safety and the Director of Research at the Institute of Textile Technology.
Experience
Chemistry (non-biochemistry), environmental science, occupational health and safety, environmental regulation and management, environmental engineering, and wastewater engineering. I'm the Director of Environmental, Health, and Safety and the Director of Research at the Institute of Textile Technology.
Education/Credentials
PhD, MS, BS in Chemistry
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.