the reason i am asking is due to my small grandson's liking for roasting marshmallows around a campfire. at home he asks for a candle.
2006-06-08 02:15:14 · 7 answers · asked by honiebyrd 4 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Chemically, no, there is no problem with using a candle. But practically, it probably wouldn't work very well.
The softening of the marshmallow when toasted is the result of radiant heat from the fire; the browning is some caramelization as some of the sugar dehydrates (loses water) -- again from the radiant heat.
The major difference between a bonfire and a candle is that a candle does not put out as much radiant heat, so you'd have to get the marshmallow MUCH closer to the flame to brown it, and probably even directly over the flame itself. This means some of the soot from the incomplete combustion of the paraffin will get on the confection. Soot is merely carbon, and any wax (paraffin -- a hydrocarbon) that gets on the marshmallow could be easily peeled off. No hazard, just not as aesthetically pleasing, or as tasty.
2006-06-08 04:08:41 · answer #1 · answered by Dave_Stark 7 · 13⤊ 3⤋
A candle burns dirty. It makes a lot of soot. It's not good for anybody and would be more harmful to a little boy.
It could just be that he's a potential pyromaniac and just wants to play with a candle.
Take him camping and build a campfire so you can supervise him. It doesn't have to be overnight. Just a couple of hours with a grandparent may be a memory that he'll cherish his whole life.
2006-06-08 09:25:07 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I wouldn't do it, burnt parafin soot can't be good for your health. Use a gas stove, much cleaner and safer for the kid's health, but then again, letting a small child play with fire... i don't know about that, your call.
2006-06-08 09:23:14 · answer #3 · answered by flammable 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yea i think its dangerous cause u get some of that paraffin stuff (unreacted fuel) on ur marshmallows and it could be harmful for ya
2006-06-08 13:02:28 · answer #4 · answered by Zeratul 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Seems like it would taste terrible. Maybe a can of sterno or a small propane burner would be better.
2006-06-08 09:59:18 · answer #5 · answered by joe 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes!!! it is dangerous, a bit of the paraffin on your marshmallows!!!!
2006-06-08 09:18:50 · answer #6 · answered by Prez 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would not use a candle. the black soot is not good for you.
2006-06-08 09:18:35 · answer #7 · answered by Iron Rider 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋