How much heat does a kernel pop in?

A popcorn kernel pops when it reaches an internal temperature of about 180°C (356°F). At this temperature, the moisture inside the kernel turns into steam, creating pressure until the outer shell bursts, causing the kernel to expand and "pop." This rapid expansion can result in a temperature increase of several hundred degrees in a fraction of a second, transforming the starchy interior into the fluffy popcorn we enjoy.