Oil vs. Water

After rinsing the Whirley Pop, I usually toss it on a lit burner just to hear the spitter spatter of the boiling water and oil.  

While popping some corn one evening, I left the top open just to see some kernels explode.  When drops of boiling oil landed on my face, I realized why it's supposed to be closed.  Not pleasant.  Glad I wear glasses.

Brownie Preparation - oil on water

Then I remembered that you're never supposed to throw water on a grease fire.  I used to think it was because the burning oil would rise atop the water and spread the fire.

Now I know that the burning oil will explosively vaporize the water and toss superheated oil everywhere.  I could see that getting ugly.