Author Topic: Why can a finger pass through a flame and not burn? (Read 3523 times)

Andres · **on:** 07/09/2008 13:42:00

Andres asked the Naked Scientists:

When lighting a candle and then you run your hand or fingers over the flame, you don't instantly feel the burn.

It's an old kids game to impress your friends your not getting burn. why is it then, that it happens that way?

What do you think?

ukmicky · **Reply #1 on:** 07/09/2008 17:05:56

Because you dont leave it in the flame long enough for your skin to heat up enough.

neilep · **Reply #2 on:** 08/09/2008 12:24:35

Doesn't work with a blow torch !

neilep · **Reply #3 on:** 08/09/2008 12:24:50

...erhmm...unless it's not lit !!

Karen W. · **Reply #4 on:** 08/09/2008 12:39:35

well, I think maybe when you pass your finger though the fame you are also pushing air at the flame which possibly forces the flame away from te skin Long enough to pass the finger over it...
i think maybe if one just loweed the finger over the flame then you would recieve a burn as their is nowhere fir the flame to lean as it is on the entire wick.. does tht make any sense.... could that be why?

neilep · **Reply #5 on:** 08/09/2008 12:47:28

I used to this all the time...Michael is absolutely right...it's just not within the flame long enough...though...you do accumulate soot which looks impressive !

Karen W. · **Reply #6 on:** 08/09/2008 12:56:37

that amazes me..I am to afraid to burn my finger to try it.....I am sceered of fire!! Lol..... It even leaves soot?? We should dub you boys, Sir sparkies.... masters of the flames!!!

neilep · **Reply #7 on:** 08/09/2008 13:12:37

Of course..as a sheepy I have to be extremely careful....wool burns !!

Bored chemist · **Reply #8 on:** 08/09/2008 18:33:22

Quote from: neilep on 08/09/2008 12:24:35

Doesn't work with a blow torch !

Does if you move it quick enough but, since I dont advocate swinging your hands about near very hot things, don't try this at home.

Karen W. · **Reply #9 on:** 08/09/2008 18:59:04

Yes Sheepy ...You be careful Please.. as there is not much worse then the smell of Dirty, stinky old burning wool!!!!! Yuckkkkkkkk!

Oh not to mention singed wool could turn our Sheepy To the Darkside.... then where would we all be if we lost the power of The Sheepy!!!
Long live our hero Sheepy... May the force be with you....
and never allow the wool to be pulled over your eyes. as sheepy is Hot....but If you singed your beautiful wool It may make you a bit to well done ........not only will you be Hot, but you will be smokin' Hot......!!!! You won't be able to stand yourself!!! Hee Hee.....

Naked Science Forum

Author Topic: Why can a finger pass through a flame and not burn? (Read 3523 times)

Andres