Naked Science Forum

General Science => General Science => Topic started by: Libbie on 20/12/2016 09:44:25

Title: Is it safe to microwave water?
Post by: Libbie on 20/12/2016 09:44:25

Libbie asked the Naked Scientists:
   
I am a huge fan - I listen to your podcasts (http://www.thenakedscientists.com/HTML/podcasts/) while in the gym or gardening. My comment: please do a segment on the "no-no's" of microwaving water. Apparently, the water can store massive amounts of energy yet not display any bubbles.  Is this true?

Thanks again.
What do you think?

Title: Re: Is it safe to microwave water?
Post by: vhfpmr on 22/12/2016 12:51:48

Yes it is true, if the container is smooth and the water remains still enough, it can become superheated and then boil explosively when disturbed. I regularly microwave water because it's a quick and easy way of warming it when it's too cold to drink straight from the tap in winter, but only just enough to take the chill off. It's important to make sure you are not heating the water beyond boiling point if you put it in a microwave.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superheating#Occurrence_via_microwave_oven