The Hidden Superpowers of Soda Cans

Next time you enjoy a refreshing soda, take a moment to examine the bottom of the can. You’ll notice it’s indented and concave, with a small ridge encircling the indentation. This unique design isn’t just for aesthetics; it gives the soda can three remarkable “superpowers.”

The primary purpose of the concave bottom is structural. The thin aluminum used to make soda cans must withstand the pressure from the carbonated beverage inside. This pressure is about 90 pounds per square inch, roughly six times the atmospheric pressure at ground level. The concave design helps distribute this internal pressure evenly, preventing the can from bulging or bursting.

The second feature is the inset ridge that encircles the bevel. This ridge allows the cans to be neatly stacked, one on top of another. This is crucial for storage and transportation, making it easier to pack, ship, and store the cans without them toppling over.

Lastly, there’s a lesser-known but handy feature of the ridge. Thanks to TikToker Jordan the Stallion, we know you can use this ridge to open another can. By placing one can on top of another, you can catch and lift the pull tab of the lower can with the ridge of the upper can. This trick makes it easier to open the can and helps protect your manicure from getting damaged.

These thoughtful design elements show that even everyday objects like soda cans can have hidden complexities and functionalities that go unnoticed. So, the next time you pop open a soda can, you’ll appreciate the ingenious engineering that made it durable and convenient.