An induction cooktop is a type of cooking appliance that uses electromagnetic fields to directly heat the cookware placed on it. Unlike traditional electric or gas stoves that generate heat and transfer it to the cookware, an induction cooktop heats the cookware itself through electromagnetic induction. This process is highly efficient, precise, and fast.
The induction cooktop consists of a flat glass-ceramic surface with induction coils beneath it. When the cooktop is turned on, alternating current passes through the coils, creating a fluctuating magnetic field. When an induction-compatible cookware with a magnetic base is placed on the cooktop, the magnetic field induces an electric current in the cookware, generating heat directly in the pot or pan. This allows for rapid heating and precise temperature control.
It's important to note that not all cookware is compatible with induction cooktops. For induction cooking to work, the cookware must have a magnetic base, such as cast iron or stainless steel. Aluminum, copper, and glass cookware, unless specifically designed for induction, will not work on an induction cooktop. You can check the bottom of your cookware for a symbol indicating if it is induction-compatible.
Electric stoves typically refer to traditional coil or smooth-top electric stoves that generate heat through electrical resistance. These types of electric stoves do not utilize induction technology. Induction cooktops require a specific design with induction coils and a glass-ceramic surface to work effectively. Therefore, an electric stove cannot be directly used as an induction cooktop.
If you have an electric stove and want to switch to induction cooking, you would need to replace the entire stove with an induction cooktop or purchase a separate standalone induction cooktop that can be used on a countertop or built into the kitchen cabinetry.