Induction cooktops are well-known for their energy efficiency and quick-cooking capability. They are believed to be the revolutionary answer to our ever-growing energy-saving problem. Unlike other forms of cooking surfaces, like the gas or electric stove top, this cooktop works on heating the food inside the pot, rather than the pot itself. An induction cooktop entails a high frequency electromagnet that produces a magnetic field, when the appliance is turned on. It heats up the cookware that is placed on it, and in turn cooks the food in it. However, can you place just about any cookware on this cooktop, or are there specific requirements for this appliance to work? Let's take a look. Cookware made from materials like glass, ceramic, copper, aluminum, etc., aren't made for this kind of cooking. This is because they lack the iron content necessary for generating the magnetic field that eventually leads to cooking of food. These pots and pans are heavy, more difficult to handle, and quite expensive; however, they do last for a long time. Having said this, it doesn't mean you have to stay away from this revolutionary technology, just because you have a well-set kitchen. Today, cookware manufacturers are readily adding the minimum iron requirement in the layer form to their utensils to make them induction-cooktop-friendly. They're adding a layer of iron to the bottom of aluminum, glass, copper, etc., to make it compatible for such kind of cooking. However, over a period of time, the layer separates from the base metal(s) and creates an annoying buzzing sound. A mauviel induction disc is a stainless steel, magnetic disc which when placed on the induction cooktop, transfers heat to the non-magnetic pot or pan placed on top of it. Those who have a large variety of non-magnetic cookware and wish to make more use of them can invest in such a disc, to make them compatible to induction cooking. If you're still doubtful about whether you want to invest in this appliance or not, go to a store and take a look at a live demonstration. Get a feel of the cookware used and the cooktop. Moreover, if you're still confused, purchase the portable version and try cooking on it for a while before investing in the larger one.