Super heating water in a microwave oven

In summary, the cause of superheating in microwaved water is a combination of a lack of bubble nucleation sites and the repeated heating and degassing of the water. This can be dangerous and caution should be taken when reheating liquids in the microwave.
  • #1
rollcast
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Is this caused by a lack of nucleation for the gas pockets to be formed or the uneven heating of the water?

A clean cup isn't proviingvery many nucleation sites and is it this combined with the even heating meanings the chance of the super heated molecules reaching these sites is reduced is the cause
 
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  • #3
rc1102 said:
Is this caused by a lack of nucleation for the gas pockets to be formed or the uneven heating of the water?

A clean cup isn't proviingvery many nucleation sites and is it this combined with the even heating meanings the chance of the super heated molecules reaching these sites is reduced is the cause

Yes, a lack of bubble nucleation sites.

The reason fluids get superheated isn't just a lack of sites for nucleation, it also happens when you leave something in the microwave and reheat it, forget it, reheat it, rinse and repeat. This effectively degasses the fluid to some varying degrees, or at least, that's how I understand it.

Be careful.:bugeye:
 

1. How does super heating water in a microwave oven occur?

Super heating occurs when water is heated above its boiling point without actually boiling. This can happen in a microwave because the water molecules are heated evenly and quickly, allowing the temperature to rise significantly without the formation of bubbles.

2. Is it safe to super heat water in a microwave oven?

While super heating water in a microwave is generally safe, it can be dangerous if the water is disturbed or if the container is not suitable for microwave use. The sudden release of steam when the water is disturbed can cause the water to erupt and potentially cause burns. It is important to use microwave-safe containers and handle the super heated water with caution.

3. Can super heating water in a microwave oven damage the microwave?

It is unlikely that super heating water in a microwave will damage the appliance. However, if the water is super heated for an extended period of time, it can cause the water to evaporate completely and potentially damage the microwave. It is important to follow recommended heating times and always keep an eye on the water while it is heating.

4. How can I prevent super heating water in a microwave oven?

To prevent super heating, it is recommended to add a small object, such as a wooden stir stick or a tea bag, to the water before heating. This provides a surface for bubbles to form and prevents the water from becoming super heated. Additionally, it is important to follow recommended heating times and never overheat the water.

5. Are there any benefits to super heating water in a microwave oven?

Super heating water in a microwave can be beneficial for certain tasks, such as making hot drinks or dissolving ingredients like sugar or gelatin. It can also save time, as the water can be heated quickly and evenly. However, it is important to use caution and follow safety guidelines when super heating water in a microwave.

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