The candle in the water

Physics of the Mundane

Adam Johnston

A lit candle, sitting in a pool of water, can do magical things if it is extinguished in just the right way.  One way to put out the flame is to place an inverted jar, beaker, glass, etc. on top of the candle.  The flame goes out, but its effect lives on as the water previously in the surrounding pool is pulled (actually pushed) up into the beaker.  (This will be demonstrated in class.)

Task:

Propose why this is.  For each proposal, conduct an experimental test that could falsify (Remember Popper?!) your hypothesis.  Repeat this process until you think you can suggest a “most likely” answer. 

You should have:

·        matches

·        votive candle and/or floating candle

·        water (with food coloring if desired)

·        forklift

·        plate or container for pool of water

·        different jars, bottles, beakers, etc.

·        rulers

·        ice and/or dry ice

·        a friend*

In explaining this phenomenon, be as methodical as possible.  (e.g.: Make a guess, test this guess, etc.)  Show your methods and data in order to justify your answer.  The more support you have for your explanation, the better.