5 Questions
What causes a flame to be considered as plasma?
When flames are hot enough to have ionized gaseous components of sufficient density
What happens when a lighter is held to a candle?
The applied heat causes the fuel molecules in the candle wax to vaporize
What are the yellow parts in the middle of a candle flame?
Soot
What do goldsmiths use the higher parts of a flame for?
Melting gold and silver
What happens when the high temperature of the flame causes the vaporized fuel molecules to decompose?
It forms various incomplete combustion products and free radicals
Study Notes
Characteristics of Flames
- A flame is considered a plasma due to the presence of ions and free electrons, resulting from the high temperatures that break the molecular bonds of the fuel.
Combustion Process
- When a lighter is held to a candle, the heat from the lighter ignites the wax, causing the wax molecules to vaporize and mix with oxygen.
- The mixture of vaporized fuel and oxygen then reacts, releasing heat and light, which sustains the flame.
Structure of a Candle Flame
- The yellow parts in the middle of a candle flame are due to the presence of hot, glowing particles of soot, which are formed during the incomplete combustion of the fuel.
Applications of Flames
- Goldsmiths utilize the higher, hotter parts of a flame for melting and shaping metals, such as gold.
Chemical Reactions in Flames
- When the high temperature of the flame causes the vaporized fuel molecules to decompose, they break down into simpler molecules, releasing energy and resulting in the production of heat and light.
Test your knowledge about flames, their mechanism, and the factors that influence their color and temperature. Learn about the chemical reactions and properties of flames.
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