Super heated water, physical properties

Question

about 2 years ago, at a thermal studies laboratory, an open vessel holding about 5 to 7 gallons of water, held a temperature of 237 degrees F. I could observe no bubbles of boiling water in it.

does anyone know the maximum temperature that water will remain a liquid at atmospheric pressure without boiling away.

i was not aware that this was possible until i saw the lab and did not think to ask the question there.

thanks in advance

Answer 1

I don't believe there is a set number that superheated water can reach.  It is highly dependent upon the conditions.  The reason the water doesn't boil is because it doesn't have any nucleation sites (where boiling occurs)

look in the bottom of a pan that has boiling water in it, bubbles of air are formed on the bottom of the dish and rise to the surface.  

super heating occurs more often in smooth containers, because scratches are excellent nucleation points.  

Adding something with a large surface area can also cause it to boil, such as salt, or instant coffee.  

Hope I was of some help