Is Lighting a Candle a Chemical Change?: 1 Minute to Understand the Chemistry Behind Candle Burning

Lighting a candle is a fascinating everyday action that actually involves both physical and chemical changes. When you light a candle, the wax near the wick melts—a physical change, as the solid wax turns to liquid without altering its chemical structure. However, the real magic happens when the melted wax is drawn up the wick and reacts with oxygen in the air. This process, known as combustion, results in new substances being formed: carbon dioxide, water vapor, heat, and light. Because new materials are produced with different properties than the original wax, lighting a candle is, above all, a chemical change.

Tips 1:

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FAQ

Q: Why is lighting a candle considered a chemical change?

A: Because combustion creates new substances (like carbon dioxide and water), which means a new chemical composition results from the reaction.

Q: What physical changes occur when a candle burns?

A: The wax melts from solid to liquid, and then vaporizes—these are physical changes since the chemical structure of the wax doesn't change during melting.

Q: What are signs of a chemical change in a burning candle?

A: Production of light and heat, release of gases (like carbon dioxide), and formation of water vapor are all chemical change indicators.

Q: Can the candle wax return to its original state after burning?

A: No, the wax that has combusted cannot revert to its original state, which is a hallmark of chemical change.

Q: Does the wick undergo a chemical change?

A: Yes, the wick also combusts and breaks down into other compounds, showing both physical degradation and chemical reaction.