Can a Crayola Crayon Serve as an Emergency Candle?
During an emergency, improvisation is key. When survival skills are not enough, innovative solutions come to the fore. One such experiment involves using Crayola crayons as makeshift candles. But is it feasible? Let’s explore this unique concept and the science behind it.
The Challenge: An Incendiary Idea
During one of my encounters, I witnessed someone attempt to use a Crayola crayon as a candle. As expected, the idea backfired. The paper sheathing flared up momentarily, melted the outer layer of the crayon, and turned to ash too quickly, providing no light. This is because wicks in traditional candles are saturated with wax, allowing them to burn steadily. The paper sheath on a crayon simply isn’t designed for such prolonged combustion.
A Twist of Fate: Making It Work
It turns out, with a bit of tinkering, it is possible to transform a Crayola crayon into a functioning candle. Here’s how it can be done:
Remove a portion of the paper sheath and expose the wax. Melt the exposed wax using a heat source. Twist the paper from the exposed crayon into a wick. Immerse the wick into the melted wax to create a makeshift candle.While this method allows the crayon to be used as a candle, it is more of a theoretical solution rather than a practical one. The downside is that it doesn’t burn for as long as a traditional candle and requires the use of a heat source to melt the wax.
The Science Behind the Experiment
According to the Crayola website, crayons begin to soften at around 105 degrees Fahrenheit (40.5 degrees Celsius). When exposed to this temperature, the wax melts, and a small part of the paper sheath becomes exposed, making it suitable for a wick. However, without a proper wick and a method to keep the flame stable, the wax will burn away too quickly, resulting in little light.
The DIY Solution: Recap and Experiment
When I was younger, we used to take old crayons and melt them down to form candles. In those DIY projects, the wicks were always pre-installed, providing a method for controlled burning. With a Crayola crayon, the wick mechanism isn’t built in, leading to the issue of the paper burning too quickly or the wax burning away too fast.
If you’re willing to experiment, give it a try by removing a portion of the paper, exposing the wax, and melting it into a wick. This could be an alternative way to light a candle in an emergency. However, it’s important to avoid burns and ensure the space is safe during this process.
In conclusion, while a Crayola crayon can theoretically be used as an emergency candle, it’s not the most practical or efficient method. Consider other emergency lighting options or always have a few proper candles on hand for peace of mind.