An induction cooktop works by emitting a toroidal electromagnetic field, typically at a frequency of 10s of kilohertz, above its coils. This field interacts with a lossy but magnetically susceptible layer in the "induction ready" pan or pot's base. The induced currents acting against the metal's resistance heats the pan base and hence the pan contents. The glass (Ceram) surface stays cool except for heat conducted into it from the pan, or radiated into it from the pan. Silicon pads can be used to lower this heating somewhat.

In general, the temperature of the cooktop under the pan is too low to burn spillage, and away from the pan the cooktop is room temperature so spillage just sits there.