There could be several reasons why your water stopped boiling even though it has been on the stove for an hour. Here are some common possibilities:
Insufficient heat: If the heat source is not powerful enough or if the stove is set to a low temperature, it may take a long time for the water to reach its boiling point, and it might not maintain the necessary heat to sustain a rolling boil.
Water volume: The amount of water in the pot can affect how long it takes to reach a boiling point and how long it will remain boiling. Larger volumes of water generally take more time to heat up and may require more energy to maintain a boil.
Elevation: If you are at a high altitude, the atmospheric pressure is lower, and this can affect the boiling point of water. Water boils at lower temperatures at higher altitudes, so it may take longer to reach a boil or not boil as vigorously as at sea level.
Pot material: The material of the pot can influence how efficiently it transfers heat to the water. Some materials are better conductors of heat than others, and this can affect the boiling process.
Pot size and shape: The size and shape of the pot can impact how well the heat is distributed throughout the water. A wide, shallow pot may allow more surface area for heat transfer and could lead to faster boiling.
Lid position: If the pot is not covered with a lid, heat loss can occur, making it more difficult for the water to maintain a consistent boil.
Dissolved substances: If there are impurities or dissolved substances in the water, such as salts or minerals, they can elevate the boiling point, making it take longer to reach a boil.
Stove malfunction: In some cases, the stove itself might have a malfunction, such as a faulty heating element or temperature control, leading to inconsistent heating.
To resolve the issue, you can try increasing the heat on the stove, using a different pot, or checking for any technical problems with the stove. Additionally, make sure to use a lid and keep an eye on the water to observe if there are any other factors affecting the boiling process.