2006-09-28 11:36:55 · 7 answers · asked by sweetpsychosis 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Other - Science
The wick contains an oxidiser, probably potassium nitrate, and a high energy fuel, either aluminum (aluminium to you brits) or magnesium in addition to the cellulose fibre of the wick.
After the candle is blown out, the wick continues to glow red hot, the fuel of the cellulose oxidising fast enough to produce the red glow, but not to re-ignite the petroleum fumes from the newly extinguished flame.
Then the red-hot wick ignites the metal speck, and it burns very hot, if you watch, you will see little miniature fireworks flashes.
These are hot enough to light the wax fumes, and the candle is burning "again."
2006-09-28 11:49:06 · answer #1 · answered by disco legend zeke 4 · 173⤊ 9⤋
The wick contains a small amount of magnesium powder. When the candle is blown out, the wick retains enough heat to ignite the magnesium powder that then burns hot enough to ignite the paraffin wax vapor.
2006-09-28 18:49:44 · answer #2 · answered by Stewart H 4 · 74⤊ 9⤋
a secret
2006-09-28 18:44:51 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 8⤊ 110⤋
Fire needs fuel, oxygen, and heat. By blowing on the candle you are removing the heat.
My guess is that a trick candle would have something in the wick to retain the heat, like a metal thread or thin wire.
Great question!
2006-09-28 18:41:57 · answer #4 · answered by Michael E 2 · 49⤊ 25⤋
Special wicks
2006-09-28 18:40:06 · answer #5 · answered by Billy 2 · 7⤊ 94⤋
good question, candles are treated with something
2006-09-28 18:40:00 · answer #6 · answered by annastasia1955ca 6 · 7⤊ 95⤋
a trick
2006-09-28 18:39:48 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 8⤊ 109⤋