This laboratory is a standard from the history of chemical education. In 1860, Michael Faraday published a series of lectures titled, "The Chemical History of the Candle." Since that time many scientists have honed their observational skills by following in his footsteps. This is a much more open-ended laboratory exercise than the others which we will attempt in this course.

Goal

Working with a partner, spend 30 minutes observing a candle. Make as many observations as possible. Be creative. Next, pose a question about candles, devise an experiment to answer the question and perform the experiment. For example:

Question: How close can an unlit candle be held to the flame of the lit candle without catching fire? One might devise an experiment by attaching the candle to a long ruler and attaching a second candle to the ruler at a 90° angle with its wick above the flame. A standard time (for example, 60 seconds) would be used at each height. Begin with a large distance. Wait the standard time, record results. If the candle does not light, reduce the distance and repeat.

An award of dubious value will be bestowed upon the group with the most interesting observations. The decision of the judges is final!

Rules

1. Cover work area with aluminum foil to prevent mess.
2. Do not use a thermometer near the flame of a candle. That would be dangerous.
3. Candles are on fire when lit (yes, I know you knew that). Be careful.

References

1. The Chemical History of a Candle