When water converts to steam at 212 degrees F, it expands approximately _____________?

When water converts to steam at 212 degrees Fahrenheit, it expands approximately 1,700 times its original volume. This drastic expansion is a critical concept in firefighting and understanding fire dynamics.

When water is heated to its boiling point, the molecules gain energy and begin to transition from a liquid to a gaseous state. This transformation allows the water molecules to move further apart from each other, resulting in a significant increase in volume. In practical terms, this is highly relevant in firefighting situations, as the sudden expansion of steam can help displace smoke and heat in a fire environment.

The other options, while they suggest significant expansion, do not accurately reflect the correct ratio. The value of 1,700 to 1 highlights how efficient water can be as a fire suppression agent, as the steam produced can help in cooling and controlling fire spread. Understanding this dynamic is essential for effective firefighting strategies.