
Candle Color and Burn Speed
Medium
Two candles of the same brand and size can burn at different speeds just because of their color. The dye mixed into the wax might change how fast it melts.
You line up five candles that differ only in color. You mark a line one inch below the wick on each one and light them all at once. Then you time how long each takes to burn down to the mark.
Compare the times to see which color melts fastest. Lighter colors may burn quicker than darker ones.
Hypothesis
The hypothesis is that the white candle will burn the fastest.
Method & Materials
You will set up the candles four inches apart, mark a line one inch down from the wick on each candle, light them all at once, and time how long it takes each to burn.
You will need a ruler, stop watch, black marker, candles, candle holders, and matches.
MEL Chemistry — hands-on chemistry experiment kits delivered monthly — great for building lab skills at home. (Affiliate link)
See what’s includedResults
We found out that the fastest burning candle was the yellow one. Therefore, our hypothesis was incorrect.
Why do this project?
This science project is interesting because it shows how color can affect the burning time of a candle.
Also Consider
Variations to consider include making the mark on the candle two inches down instead of one inch down, and trying other brands and colors of candles.
Full project details
Additional information and source material for this project are available below.Related video
These videos explain the science behind this project and demonstrate key concepts used in the experiment.
Share this Science Project:
Related Science Fair Project Ideas
Add Alka-Seltzer to a red cabbage lava lamp and watch the blobs shift color as you change the pH.
Medium
Grow sparkling rainbow crystals overnight on pipe cleaners and watch solid crystal structures form as the Borax water cools.
Medium
Turn a hollow eggshell into a miniature geode by growing Borax crystals inside it overnight.
Medium
Share this Science Project:
