The standard duration to boil water in a kettle typically ranges from 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the kettle's size, the initial water temperature, and the stove's heat setting. For instance, a 1-quart kettle on a high heat setting may take around 5 minutes to boil, while a 2-quart kettle might require closer to 7-8 minutes. This time frame is based on the assumption that the water starts at room temperature (approximately 70°F or 21°C) and the kettle is placed on a medium to high heat source.

The reason for this range lies in the principles of heat transfer and the physical properties of water. When water is heated, its temperature increases until it reaches its boiling point, which is 212°F (100°C) at sea level. The time it takes to reach this point depends on the amount of heat energy the water absorbs and the surface area of the kettle that is in contact with the heat source.

According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the heat capacity of water is 4.186 joules per gram per degree Celsius. This means that to raise the temperature of 1 gram of water by 1 degree Celsius, you need to add 4.186 joules of heat. For a kettle filled with water, the amount of heat required to bring it to a boil is proportional to the mass of the water and the temperature change needed.

Additionally, the heat transfer rate is influenced by the kettle's design and the stove's heat output. A kettle with a larger surface area in contact with the heat will transfer heat more efficiently, leading to a shorter boiling time. Similarly, a stove with a higher heat output will heat the water faster.

Research from the Journal of Food Science and Technology suggests that the boiling time can be affected by the purity of the water. Impurities in the water can absorb some of the heat energy, thus increasing the boiling time. Furthermore, the initial temperature of the water also plays a role. Cold water requires more energy to heat up than warm water, which can extend the boiling time.

In conclusion, the average time to boil water in a kettle is between 5 to 10 minutes, influenced by factors such as kettle size, initial water temperature, stove heat setting, and water purity.