Heating Water in Microwave Vs. Boiling on Stove

Heating water in a microwave is not always possible.

Water can be heated in a microwave oven, over an electric burner or over a flame. Water should be heated in a glass or metal container rather than plastic to avoid melting, leaching or other undesirable side effects. Water boils at 212 degrees Fahrenheit when heated at sea level.

Time Frame

Microwaving water on your unit's "High" setting will result in a gentle boil after three to four minutes. For a rolling boil, during which the water is constantly in motion, six minutes is generally sufficient. A high stove top setting will cause water in a metal pan to boil within 10 to 12 minutes.

Considerations

Microwave ovens are generally designed to hold small containers, while stove burners can accommodate large pans. Coffee mugs and standard bowls are ideal for heating water in a microwave oven. Large amounts of water should be boiled using the stove.

Warnings

Superheated water can result from extended exposure to microwave radiation, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. When water is exposed to microwave radiation for an extended period of time, which causes impurities to evaporate, it can become superheated to the point at which it no longer appears to be boiling. When impurities are introduced to the superheated water, the water bursts into a rolling boil and can cause injuries.

Never attempt to boil water in a Styrofoam container because the container will melt before water reaches its boiling point.

References

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Microwave Oven Radiation
• U.S. Department of Energy: Boiling Water in Plastic