The standard time to boil eggs in an electric kettle is approximately 7 to 10 minutes. This duration is sufficient for hard-boiled eggs, where the shell remains intact and the egg white and yolk are fully cooked. The exact time can vary slightly depending on the size of the eggs and the power of the electric kettle. Larger eggs or less powerful kettles may require a bit more time, while smaller eggs or more powerful kettles may cook the eggs faster.

The reason for this time frame lies in the heat transfer process within the electric kettle. When water is heated to boiling point, it begins to cook the egg. The heat causes the proteins in the egg white to coagulate and the yolk to solidify. The boiling point of water is 212°F (100°C), and once the water reaches this temperature, it can effectively cook the eggs. The cooking time is influenced by the size of the eggs, as larger eggs have more mass and therefore require more heat to reach the same internal temperature as smaller eggs.

Research conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides guidelines for cooking eggs safely. According to the USDA, eggs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. This temperature is typically reached within the 7 to 10-minute range for hard-boiled eggs in an electric kettle. The USDA also advises against overcooking eggs, as this can lead to a tough texture and loss of flavor.

In summary, boiling eggs in an electric kettle takes approximately 7 to 10 minutes to achieve a safe and desirable level of doneness. This time frame is based on the heat transfer capabilities of the electric kettle and the recommended cooking temperature for eggs.