Kitchen Counter Moisture Mystery

  • Thread starter Thread starter Jaime Derecho PE
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    Counter Mystery
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the phenomenon of moisture appearing on granite kitchen counters after placing warm objects, such as microwave plates, on them. Participants conclude that the moisture is likely due to condensation from water vapor released by the heated food, which evaporates during cooking. The cooler granite surface causes this vapor to condense, resulting in visible moisture. Additionally, condensation may occur on the cooking container itself, contributing to the moisture observed on the counter.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamics, specifically heat transfer and condensation.
  • Familiarity with the properties of granite as a countertop material.
  • Knowledge of moisture evaporation and condensation processes.
  • Basic principles of cooking and food moisture content.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the thermodynamic principles of condensation and evaporation.
  • Explore the thermal properties of different countertop materials, including granite.
  • Investigate methods to minimize condensation on kitchen surfaces.
  • Learn about moisture control techniques in kitchen environments.
USEFUL FOR

Homeowners, kitchen designers, and anyone interested in understanding moisture dynamics in kitchen environments.

Jaime Derecho PE
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I have noticed a phenomenon I cannot explain in my kitchen. Whenever I place a warm object on the granite counter [e.g. plate from microwave], when I remove the object, the counter is covered with moisture where the object was. I'm guessing it is condensing from the air due to the temp difference, but this seems unlikey since there would be so little air trapped below the object.
Yes, this is trivial, but it's driving me to madness.
 
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I'm guessing the food you microwaved is fairly moist, and when it is heated it evaporates a lot of water. The water condenses on the cooler counter.
 
Khashishi said:
I'm guessing the food you microwaved is fairly moist
yes - and possibly hotter than the cooking container. That could cause condensation on the container's outer surface during the few minute's cooking time which would be lost to the air and condense on the even colder granite top after it's taken out of the oven.
Edit: If there is a wet ring round the base of the dish, that could well be due to condensation that occurred inside the oven.
 

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