"Drinking candle" experiment
Easy and impressive experiment with candle and water
An interesting experiment that demonstrates the change in the volume of air from heating and cooling.
Reagents and equipment:
- a candle;
- water;
- a Petri dish;
- a glass cylinder;
- a cigarette lighter.
Step-by-step instructions
Pour a little water into the Petri dish. Place a candle in it. Light the candle. Cover the candle with a glass cylinder, so the edge of the cylinder is completely immersed in the water. When the candle goes out, the water level in the cylinder will rise.
Processes description
When the candle burns, oxygen is expended, and the air in the cylinder heats up. When all of the oxygen is expended, the burning stops and the air cools. The volume of the cooled air is less than the volume of the heated air. As a result, a difference of pressures arises, which causes the water from the Petri dish to be sucked into the cylinder.
Safety precautions
Wear protective glasses and gloves. Don’t conduct the experiment near flammable substances and objects. Fire-extinguishing equipment should be at the ready. Follow general safety recommendations. Chemical experiments must be carried out in full compliance with the legislation of your country.
Warning! Substances of this experiment are toxic and highly dangerous for your health. Do not try this at home. Only under professional supervision.