To effectively boil eggs in a small electric pot, the recommended cooking time is typically around 6 to 8 minutes for hard-boiled eggs and 4 to 5 minutes for soft-boiled eggs. This duration ensures that the eggs are cooked to the desired level of doneness without overcooking, which can lead to rubbery textures.

The reason for this specific time frame lies in the science of heat transfer and the physical properties of eggs. When eggs are placed in boiling water, the heat causes the proteins within the egg whites and yolks to coagulate and solidify. The cooking time is crucial because it determines the extent of this coagulation. For hard-boiled eggs, the longer cooking time allows the proteins to fully set, resulting in a firm texture. Conversely, soft-boiled eggs require less time to achieve a runny yolk and a slightly tender white.

Research conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides guidelines for safe and effective egg cooking. According to the USDA, hard-boiled eggs should be cooked at a rolling boil for 6 to 8 minutes to ensure that the core temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C), which is the minimum temperature required to kill harmful bacteria. For soft-boiled eggs, the cooking time is shorter, as the goal is to keep the yolk runny, which typically requires 4 to 5 minutes of boiling. It's important to note that the cooking time can vary slightly depending on the size of the eggs and the power of the electric pot, but the general range remains consistent.