Category: Science > Superheating
One of the most interesting phenomena in science occurs when water is heated to 100 degrees Celsius at standard atmospheric pressure: it doesn't just boil; it undergoes a process known as "superheating." In a superheated state, water can exceed its boiling point without actually forming bubbles. This happens because the water is heated in a smooth container, which lacks the imperfections that typically serve as nucleation sites for bubble formation. As a result, the water can remain in liquid form even above 100 degrees Celsius until it is disturbed or a foreign object is introduced, leading to an explosive release of steam. This phenomenon is not only intriguing from a theoretical standpoint but also has practical implications in fields such as cooking, where superheated water can cause serious burns if mishandled.
