What Causes Sugar Crystals to Grow?

Saturation

• Sugar crystals can be generated in a saturated environment, called a syrup in the case of a sugar solution. When a solution is "supersaturated" crystals form on the undissolved particles or crystals within the solution. The typical formula for a sugar solution is two cups of sugar for every cup of water.

Physical Agitation

• The lack of physical agitation allows crystals to bond freely and form evenly. When a solution is shaken up, any forming molecular bonds can be torn apart, creating smaller and irregular crystals. Usually some growing medium, like a clean piece of string, is suspended in the solution in order to give the crystals some place to form.

Temperature

• A slowly cooling solution works in tandem with a still environment in order to form large and distinct crystals. Since it takes a relatively long time to form sugar crystals, gently cooling the solution is another function of the artificially inert environment that these crystals need to thrive in.

Uniformity

• Forming sugar crystals should be done with purified water and one type of sugar. Any adulterating liquid, like lemon juice, or particulate matter in the water can cause agitation and prevent even crystal formation.