Aluminum pots and pans cannot be used on induction cooktops because they are not compatible with the induction cooking method. Induction cooktops work by creating an electromagnetic field that heats up the cookware directly, rather than heating the cooktop surface. This process requires a specific type of cookware that is responsive to the magnetic field, and aluminum does not meet this requirement.
The reason aluminum doesn't work with induction cooktops is that it is a non-magnetic material. Induction cooktops rely on magnetic induction to generate heat in the cooking vessel. When an induction-compatible pot or pan is placed on the cooktop, the magnetic field induces electrical currents within the cookware, and these currents create heat due to resistance. However, aluminum does not have the magnetic properties necessary to generate these currents, so it remains cool and does not heat up efficiently on an induction cooktop.
To work effectively with induction cooktops, the cookware must be made from magnetic materials, such as iron or stainless steel. Many modern stainless steel cookware sets have a magnetic base specifically designed for use with induction cooktops.
If you have an induction cooktop and want to use aluminum cookware, you'll need to consider alternative options like purchasing new induction-compatible pots and pans, or you could use an induction interface disk. An induction interface disk is a flat metal plate made of magnetic material that can be placed on the cooktop, and then you can use your aluminum or non-magnetic cookware on top of it. However, keep in mind that using an interface disk may result in slightly slower and less efficient cooking compared to using induction-compatible cookware directly on the cooktop.