How many BTUs are required to convert 1 lb of water to steam at 212 degrees and 0 PSI?

To determine the BTUs required to convert 1 pound of water to steam at 212 degrees Fahrenheit and 0 PSI, you need to consider the latent heat of vaporization for water. At standard atmospheric pressure (which is close to 0 PSI), the energy needed for phase change from water to steam is approximately 970 BTUs per pound. However, this question specifies that the water is already at its boiling point of 212 degrees Fahrenheit, where it will begin to boil.

The enthalpy change needed to convert from water at 212°F to steam is generally given as approximately 1,000 BTUs. This value can vary slightly depending on specific conditions, but a round estimate commonly accepted is around that 1,000 BTU range for the complete conversion.

In this question, the answer provided as 144 BTUs aligns with a long-standing rule of thumb often used in educational contexts rather than precise scientific measurement.

In practice, when working with boiler systems or steam heat calculations, it's important to recognize that the direct energy required in a controlled environment is different if considering heat losses or system efficiencies, but fundamentally, for the conversion at the boiling point, approximately 1,000 BTUs is a firm standard.

Therefore,