Explain the difference between a "boil" and a "simmer".

The distinction between a "boil" and a "simmer" is important in cooking techniques. A boil is characterized by vigorous bubbling, where large bubbles rapidly rise to the surface and break, indicating that the liquid is at or near its boiling point. This high heat creates an intense movement within the liquid.

In contrast, a simmer is gentler; it involves small bubbles that occasionally rise to the surface without the aggressive bubbling associated with boiling. Simmering typically occurs at a lower temperature than boiling, resulting in a softer movement of the liquid, which is ideal for cooking foods that require careful heat control to prevent them from breaking apart or overcooking.

Understanding this difference is crucial for achieving desired textures and flavors in various recipes, as different cooking techniques can significantly affect the final results.