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What Is the Boiling Point of H2O?

The boiling point of H2O, or water, can change slightly at different elevations, but in scientific terms and in cooking terms it is usually an accepted constant whether listed in Fahrenheit or Celsius.

  1. Scientific Definition

    • The boiling point of water is 212 degrees Fahrenheit, or 100 degrees Celsius. The speed at which the water molecule of H2O is moving causes the temperature in water to increase and eventually boil and evaporate.

    Elevation Differences

    • As elevation rises the oxygen content in the air decreases and the pressure in the atmosphere increases. This means that the higher the altitude, the lower the temperature water needs to reach to hits its boiling point.

    Interesting Fact

    • In high altitude areas water will boil at a lower temperature. Even though the water is at a lower temperature, any water that is boiling will cause burns. Residents of these high altitude areas have been known to burn themselves while drinking hot beverages, like tea.

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