The color to paint smoke from cooking is typically white. This is because smoke, which is a mixture of gases and particles, often appears white when it contains water vapor. When food is cooked, moisture is released into the air, which can condense and scatter light, making the smoke appear white. This is supported by research from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), which states that the presence of water vapor in smoke is a significant factor in its coloration (NIST, 2019).

The reason for this white coloration is due to the scattering of light by the particles in the smoke. When light passes through a medium, such as smoke, it can be scattered in various directions. This scattering is more pronounced when the particles are small, as is often the case with smoke. The smaller particles in smoke can scatter light more effectively, leading to the white appearance. Additionally, the presence of water vapor in the smoke can enhance this scattering effect, as water droplets are also small and can scatter light effectively.

It is important to note that the color of cooking smoke can vary depending on the type of food being cooked and the cooking method used. For example, smoke from burning wood or charcoal can have a darker, more orange or red hue due to the presence of carbon particles. However, when it comes to the smoke produced by cooking food, the presence of water vapor and the scattering of light by small particles typically result in a white color.

In conclusion, the color to paint smoke from cooking is white, primarily due to the scattering of light by water vapor and small particles in the smoke. This understanding is supported by scientific research, particularly from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, which highlights the role of water vapor in the coloration of smoke (NIST, 2019).