Distilled Water vs. Boiled Water — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on November 24, 2023
Distilled Water is purified by turning it into steam and then condensing it back into liquid, removing impurities. Boiled Water is heated until it reaches its boiling point, killing bacteria, but not removing all impurities.
Difference Between Distilled Water and Boiled Water
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Distilled Water is the result of a specific purification process that involves heating water to its boiling point and then collecting the vapor in a separate container, where it condenses back into a liquid. This method ensures the removal of most contaminants. In contrast, Boiled Water is simply water that has been heated to 212°F (100°C) and has reached its boiling point.
By using the process of distillation, Distilled Water effectively removes minerals, bacteria, and other contaminants. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind these impurities, providing pure H2O upon condensation. On the other hand, Boiled Water kills bacteria and pathogens due to the high temperature, but it doesn't eliminate minerals or other dissolved solids.
One of the primary benefits of Distilled Water is its purity. It's often used in laboratories and industries where pure water is essential. Conversely, Boiled Water is commonly used for cooking or drinking in areas where tap water might be contaminated with pathogens.
Another notable difference is the taste. Distilled Water, due to its lack of minerals and impurities, might taste flat to some individuals. Boiled Water, depending on the original water source, may still retain some of its mineral flavors, even after boiling.
It's essential to understand that while Boiled Water can make water safe to drink by killing bacteria and pathogens, it doesn't equate to the purity level of Distilled Water. Distilled water is free from most contaminants, making it the purer option between the two.
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Comparison Chart
Purification Process
Evaporation and condensation
Heating to boiling point
Removes Bacteria
Yes
Yes
Removes Minerals
Yes
No
Taste
Often described as flat
Retains some mineral flavors
Typical Uses
Laboratories, industries, certain appliances
Cooking, making safe drinking water
Compare with Definitions
Distilled Water
Lacks minerals and impurities commonly found in regular water.
Distilled Water is ideal for use in irons to prevent mineral buildup.
Boiled Water
Kills bacteria and pathogens present in the water.
Travelers are often advised to drink only Boiled Water.
Distilled Water
Taste can be described as flat due to the lack of minerals.
Some people don't prefer the taste of Distilled Water for drinking.
Boiled Water
Commonly used for cooking and preparing food.
Pasta should be cooked in vigorously Boiled Water.
Distilled Water
Often used in medical and industrial settings.
Hospitals might use Distilled Water to prepare certain solutions.
Boiled Water
Retains the taste based on its source and minerals present.
The tea made with Boiled Water has a distinct flavor.
Distilled Water
Water purified through evaporation and subsequent condensation.
Laboratories often require Distilled Water for experiments.
Boiled Water
Does not remove minerals or dissolved solids.
Boiled Water can still contain minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Distilled Water
Achieved by boiling water and collecting the resulting vapor.
The distillation process ensures that Distilled Water is highly pure.
Boiled Water
Water that has been heated to its boiling point.
Boiled Water is safe for drinking in many regions.
Common Curiosities
What process is used to create Distilled Water?
Distilled Water is created through evaporation and subsequent condensation.
Why is Boiled Water often recommended for travelers?
Boiling kills harmful bacteria and pathogens, making the water safer to drink.
Which is purer, Distilled Water or Boiled Water?
Distilled Water is purer as it removes most contaminants and minerals.
Is it enough to boil water to make it as pure as Distilled Water?
No, boiling only kills bacteria but doesn't remove minerals or other dissolved impurities.
Does Boiled Water remove all impurities?
No, Boiled Water kills bacteria and pathogens but doesn't remove dissolved solids or minerals.
Does Distilled Water have any minerals?
No, the distillation process removes minerals from the water.
What are the benefits of Distilled Water over Boiled Water?
Distilled Water is purer, lacking minerals and most contaminants present in regular water.
Why does Distilled Water taste different?
It lacks the minerals that give water its typical taste.
Where is Distilled Water commonly used?
In laboratories, industries, and certain appliances that require mineral-free water.
Is Boiled Water acidic or alkaline?
Boiled Water's pH can vary but is usually close to neutral, depending on its source.
Can Distilled Water be used for drinking?
Yes, though some people find it tastes flat due to the absence of minerals.
Can Distilled Water go bad?
If stored improperly or contaminated, Distilled Water can become unsafe, but it doesn't "expire" like perishable food.
Is it safe to cook with Distilled Water?
Yes, but it may alter the taste of some dishes due to its lack of minerals.
How long should water be boiled to make it safe?
Boiling for at least one minute typically kills most harmful organisms.
Does boiling change the pH of water?
Boiling can sometimes slightly change the pH, but the change is usually minimal.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
