Question

What is the process of heating sugar called??

Answer 1

Sugar is made of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atoms. When heated over a candle, these elements react with the fire to turn into a liquid. The heat causes the sugar's atoms to combine with the oxygen in the air, forming new groups of atoms. Energy is released in this chemical reaction in the form of smoke and black soot.

Answer 2

When granulated sugar is slowly heated, it melts and turns golden brown. This process is known as caramelization. In addition to stopping caramelization, the water dilutes the sugar to a syrup that can be used in recipes such as flan.