What is the absorption capacity of water when it turns to steam in terms of BTUs?

When water turns to steam, it undergoes a phase change that requires a significant amount of energy, commonly referred to as the latent heat of vaporization. In terms of BTUs, the specific amount of energy absorbed is about 970 BTUs per pound of water. This energy is necessary for the water molecules to overcome the attractive forces that keep them in the liquid state, allowing them to spread apart and become steam.

Understanding this value is crucial for firefighters and those in emergency response situations, as it helps illustrate the energy dynamics involved in fire behavior and steam generation. Water’s ability to absorb this energy contributes to its effectiveness as a cooling agent and fire suppressor when applied in firefighting methods.