Candle facts for kids

A candle is like a special stick made of wax with a string called a wick right in its middle. When you light the wick, a small flame appears. This flame burns slowly for a long time, giving off light.

You might think fire would burn the string very fast. But in a candle, the string doesn't burn quickly. Instead, the flame melts the wax around the wick. This melted wax then gets drawn up the wick to feed the flame. Sometimes, the melted wax drips down the side of the candle. When this melted wax cools down and moves away from the flame, it becomes hard again. This wax can even be used to make new candles!

The flame of a candle is very hot, even though it's small. The hottest part, which often looks light blue, can be as hot as 1,400 degrees Celsius (2,550 degrees Fahrenheit). Because it's real fire, it can burn people or other things. It's very important to be careful with candles. If the fire spreads, it can grow into a very big fire and might even burn down a house or building. Always have an adult nearby when using candles.

If a candle's flame is kept burning long enough, the candle will slowly get shorter and shorter until it's all gone. You can put out a candle's fire by blowing air on it. There's also a special tool called a "candle snuffer." It's a small metal cup on a handle that you place over the flame to put it out safely. Today, candle snuffers are often used in churches or for candles that are placed very high up. Stopping the fire keeps the candle from burning away completely.

Why We Use Candles

Before light bulbs were invented, candles were super important. People used them so they could see at night. Even today, some people still use candles. They might use them when the electricity goes out during a power cut. Others simply enjoy the soft, warm light that candles create.

Candles are also popular because they can look very nice as decorations. Many candles also have a pleasant smell, like vanilla or cinnamon. A special type of candle called "citronella" can even help keep bugs away, especially when you're outside.

Related pages

• Lantern
• Electric light
• Advent

Images for kids

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  A candle in a candle stick

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  Taper candles in the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière

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  Roman oil lamp

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  Price's Candles had become the largest candle manufacturer in the world by the end of the 19th century

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  Candle lighting in the Visoki Dečani monastery

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  Closeup view of candle at night

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  Candles for Christmas.

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  A small ornamental candle with a gold stand

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  Wick-trimmer

See also

In Spanish: Vela (iluminación) para niños