Verified Solution Science A Journey through States of Water

Why does steam cause more severe burns than boiling water at the same temperature (100 degrees Celsius)?

8 views 1 helpful Updated Jul 1, 2026
Solution ✔ Verified
  • ASteam has a higher chemical reactivity.
  • BSteam contains additional latent heat that it releases upon condensation.
  • CSteam is more acidic than boiling water.
  • DSteam has smaller molecules, allowing it to penetrate deeper.
Explanation

Steam, at 100°C, carries latent heat of vaporization, which is the extra heat energy absorbed during the boiling process to change from liquid to gas. When steam touches the skin, it condenses back into liquid water and releases this additional latent heat, causing a much more severe burn than boiling water at the same temperature.

Was this solution helpful?
1
Practice more questions on A Journey through States of Water — download a free worksheet. Download
Not the question you're searching for? + Ask your question