Middle School Science Blog

Materials – per 2 students

• Student Handout (Candle Observations)
• votive candle
• small beaker
• large beaker
• ruler
• matches & beaker with water for spent matches
  • I light the candles for the students in this age group (6th)

Procedures

1. Discuss how candles work and the fire triangle (link)
2. Discuss combustion and the chemical reactions that takes place when a candle burns
3. Explain the lab procedures and remind students of safety protocols
4. Students will record qualitative and quantitative observations of an unlit candle (5 minutes), burning candle (10 minutes), and a covered burning candle until it goes out and the wax hardens (5 minutes)
   • all students will place the larger beaker over the candle at the same time and watch as the candle goes out
5. Share observations and discuss

I like to use this lab as part of my physical and chemical changes unit, it is such a classic and the kids make some great observations and ask lots of good questions.

Links:

• BrainPOP – fire video and resources
• Naked Scientist – water vapor and candles
• Candle Science – how do candles burn?