
Do candles burn for longer in hot or cold conditions?
Here we shine a light on whether the temperature of a candle and the surrounding environment affects how long it will burn.
Asked by: Anonymous
A candle works by using heat initially provided by, say a match, to melt wax, which rises up the central wick to keep the flame alight. If a candle is cold, it will take somewhat longer for heat to percolate down into the body of the candle and warm the wax to its melting point. But the effect on the lifetime of a candle won't be dramatic.
Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.
Authors

Robert is a science writer and visiting professor of science at Aston University.
Subscription offer
Subscribe and save 50% on the shop price. Pay just £16.50 every 6 issues by Direct Debit. Receive every issue delivered direct to your door with FREE UK delivery.