Title: Measuring the Enthalpy Change of a Candle Flame

Objective: To measure the enthalpy change of a candle flame using a calorimeter and calculate the
enthalpy change per mole of wax burned.

Research Question: What is the effect of the type of wax used in the candle on the enthalpy change
per mole of wax burned?

Materials:
- Candle
- Aluminum can with lid (calorimeter)
- Thermometer
- Matches/lighter
- Stopwatch/timer
- Water
- Measuring cylinder
- Balance
- Safety equipment (lab coat, gloves, goggles)

Procedure:
1. Weigh the candle and record its mass.
2. Fill the calorimeter with a known volume of water and record its mass and temperature.
3. Ignite the candle and hold it under the calorimeter, allowing the flame to heat the water for a
set amount of time (e.g., 5 minutes).
4. Extinguish the candle and reweigh it to determine the amount of wax burned.
5. Record the final temperature of the water in the calorimeter.
6. Calculate the enthalpy change of the water using the formula: q = mCΔT, where q is the heat
absorbed by the water, m is the mass of the water, C is the specific heat capacity of water
(4.18 J/g°C), and ΔT is the change in temperature of the water.
7. Calculate the enthalpy change per mole of wax burned using the formula: ΔH = q/n, where
ΔH is the enthalpy change per mole of wax burned, q is the heat absorbed by the water, and
n is the number of moles of wax burned, which can be calculated using the molar mass of
the wax and the mass of wax burned.

Tips and considerations:

- Make sure to use safety equipment and follow proper lab safety procedures when working
with candles and flames.
- Make sure to record all measurements accurately and precisely.
- Use a stopwatch or timer to ensure that the candle is held under the calorimeter for a
consistent amount of time.
- Repeat the experiment multiple times to ensure the results are consistent and reliable.
- Consider variations in the type of candle used, such as scented candles or candles with
different wick materials, and how they might affect the enthalpy change measured.
The candle experiment is a good idea for measuring the enthalpy change of a system because it is a
relatively simple and safe way to produce heat, making it an ideal heat source for use in a
calorimeter. Additionally, candles are readily available and inexpensive, making this experiment an
accessible option for students or researchers on a budget.

Furthermore, the experiment allows for personal engagement, as it involves lighting and observing
a candle flame, which can be an interesting and engaging experience for students or researchers.
The experiment also provides a tangible way to understand the concept of enthalpy change, as
students or researchers can directly observe the heat produced by the candle flame and measure
the resulting change in the temperature of the water in the calorimeter.

Finally, the experiment has practical applications in everyday life, as it provides a way to calculate
the amount of energy released by burning a candle, which can be useful in areas such as home
heating or energy conservation.