How many times does one gallon of water expand into steam?

One gallon of water has the capacity to expand into steam by approximately 1700 times its original volume when it is heated to its boiling point. This remarkable expansion occurs due to the change in state from liquid to gas; as water is heated, it transforms into water vapor, which occupies a significantly larger volume than its liquid state. This phenomenon is essential for understanding fire dynamics, particularly in firefighting situations, where the rapid expansion of steam can effectively smother flames by displacing oxygen and cooling the surrounding area.

The other figures, while impressive, do not align with the scientifically accepted understanding of water's expansion into steam.