Why does steam sometimes rise from street grates?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why does steam sometimes rise from street grates?

The Big Idea

On cold days, steam rises from some street grates. It looks spooky! Where does it come from?

Steam Pipes

Step one: Steam Pipes. In some cities, underground steam pipes carry heat to buildings. Steam can escape through cracks and openings.

Warm Meets Cold

Step two: Warm Meets Cold. Warm underground air meeting cold winter air can also form clouds. It is just like your breath on a cold day.

Just Vapor

Step three: Just Vapor. The steam looks spooky, but it is only water vapor. Crews keep an eye on it, and people should stay away from hot grates.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Pipes carry steam. Grates let it out. Cold air cools it. A cloud forms.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! New York City's famous orange-and-white striped stacks vent steam from underground pipes. Grates can be hot. Steam is water vapor. Steam heats buildings.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! On a cold day, go outside with a grown-up. Breathe out slowly. Watch your breath make a small cloud. That is the same idea as street steam. Try breathing fast and slow.

Outro

Steam rises from street grates because underground steam pipes can leak, and warm air meeting cold air forms clouds like your breath. It is just water vapor, but stay away from hot grates. Science is amazing! Keep asking questions! The more you look around, the more wonders you will find, so keep your eyes open! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!