What is the role of the wick in the candle?
Is the role of the wick just to hold the flame of the candle?
More information would be appreciated, thanks.
Also, How does it help keep the candle lit? does it burn?
I found this
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candle_wick
Thank you:-)
The role of the wick in a candle is not only to hold the flame but also to facilitate the process of combustion. The wick is typically made from a narrow, braided cotton or linen material. When you light a candle, the heat from the flame melts the wax near the wick. This melted wax is drawn up the wick through a process called capillary action.
As the liquid wax reaches the top of the wick, the heat of the flame causes the wax to vaporize and combine with oxygen from the air. This creates a combustion reaction, releasing heat, light, water vapor, and carbon dioxide. The wick essentially acts as a fuel delivery system, continuously supplying the flame with a steady flow of liquid wax.
Now, to answer your second question, yes, the wick does burn, but only at the tip where it reaches the hottest part of the flame. The burning portion of the wick provides the necessary heat to vaporize the surrounding liquid wax.
It's worth noting that the length and size of the wick are critical factors in determining the size and stability of the flame. If the wick is too long, it can produce a larger flame that may flicker or smoke excessively. Conversely, if the wick is too short, it may not provide adequate fuel to keep the flame alive.
Therefore, to keep a candle lit properly, it's essential to trim the wick to an appropriate length before lighting it. A well-trimmed wick promotes a clean, steady burn and helps to prevent the accumulation of excess soot or smoke.