DESCRIPTION:
Candle wax is flammable as a vapor, so a candle can be relit by igniting the smoke trail of a recently blown out candle, which contains wax vapor. This can be used to demonstrate how caution needs to be taken with flammable vapors.
TOPICS COVERED:
– safety
– combustion
– light
– vaporization
MATERIALS NEEDED:
– candle
– matches
PROCEDURE:
1. Light the candle
2. Blow out the candle
3. Relight the smoke trail
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
This works best with a candle that has a large wick.
SAFETY:
Caution should be used when handling matches and goggles should be worn at all times.
REFERENCES:
Meerman, Ruben. “Leaping Candle Flame.” Posted 4 Jan 2007. Accessed 17 June 2010.
http://www.abc.net.au/science/surfingscientist/pdf/teachdemo11.pdf