Why does a log of wood take longer time to burn than the same size of wood, cut into shavings?

Question

I could answer it in my own words, although we need research. :|

Answer 1

Combustion takes place only at the surface of the wood. Wood shavings have a much greater total surface area than the log from which they were cut. Sawdust has an even greater surface area; a pile of sawdust can burst into flame spontaneously due to the heat of decomposition, and such a fire can be especially destructive because the burning sawdust can be easily carried on the wind.

Answer 2

Surface area to body ratio. It is also why crushed ice will melt faster than ice cubes, why smaller bits of food heat faster in the microwave, why ants that fall from trees don't get hurt, and much, much more. Study this subject a little; you can find out some pretty cool things.

Answer 3

It has to do with surface area. The shavings have a much large surface area for the chemical reaction to occur on. Hence, hey burn much faster.

Answer 4

A fire needs oxygen to breath and get bigger. With the clippings there are many little one's and lots of air holes. It also depends on the kinda wood. different kinds burn at different paces.

Answer 5

surface area