Science Sunday--The Science of Fire

Today we set out to learn all about fire---in a small way---with adult supervision of course.

I simply went to the cupboard to find the supplies for today's science.

2 small candles

2 different size jars

a bowl

water

food coloring

matches

First we discussed the fact that fire needs fuel and oxygen to burn.

We lit both candles, over one, place a jar.

The fire consumes the oxygen in the jar and the flame goes out.

Next we checked to see if a larger jar contained more oxygen than a small jar.
If the larger jar does contain more oxygen, the candle should burn longer.
We proved that that, yes, the larger jar contained more oxygen and stayed lit longer than the candle in the small jar.
The next experiment was the WOW factor of science day.
Place about a half inch of water in the bottom of a bowl.
Add some food coloring.
Place the candle into the center of the bowl, in the water.
We are going to see if oxygen takes up space.
Light the candle

and then place the jar over the candle.

If oxygen takes of space, and the fire burns the oxygen, something will take the place of the oxygen in the jar.

In this case, the water will take the place of the now gone oxygen.

The water actually rises in the jar as the flame goes out.

We all did say "wow"!

Notice the level of water on the candle.
Hooray!! Another experiment worked just like it was supposed too!!

Of course, everyone had to take a turn performing this amazing science experiment.