Does Water Always Boil at 100°C? Unraveling the Misconception

Introduction

In our everyday lives, we often encounter various “facts” that we accept without question. One such common belief is that water always boils at 100°C. This notion is so ingrained in our minds that we rarely stop to consider its accuracy. But is it really true?

The Science Behind Boiling Water

While it’s true that water boils at 100°C under certain conditions, this is not a universal constant. The boiling point of water is actually dependent on atmospheric pressure. At sea level, where the pressure is standard, water does indeed boil at 100°C. However, as you ascend to higher altitudes, the atmospheric pressure decreases, and so does the boiling point of water.

For example, in a place like Denver, Colorado, which is approximately 1,600 meters above sea level, water boils at around 95°C. This is because the lower air pressure at higher altitudes allows water molecules to escape into the air more easily, thus requiring less heat to reach the boiling point.

Conversely, if you were to boil water in a pressure cooker or at the bottom of a deep sea, the boiling point would be higher than 100°C due to the increased pressure.

Conclusion

Understanding the factors that affect the boiling point of water can help us appreciate the complexities of science and the importance of questioning common knowledge.

Not everything we hear or learn is set in stone, and it’s crucial to remain curious and informed.

So the next time you hear someone say that water always boils at 100°C, you can share your newfound knowledge and help debunk this myth.

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