Experiment: Demonstrating that carbon dioxide extinguishes a burning flame

Aim: to show that carbon dioxide extinguishes a flame

Materials:  3 different sized candles, vinegar, baking soda, beaker or plastic bottle, shallow dish

Method

1. Place the 3 pieces of candle in a shallow dish
2. Light the candles
3. Mix vinegar and baking soda in a plastic bottle to make carbon dioxide
4. “Pour” the heavy carbon dioxide gas into the shallow dish, being careful not to pour out the liquid into the dish/onto the candles

Results and Observations

• The shortest candle goes out first followed by the mid sized candle
• The largest candle piece goes out last provided it’s shorter than the sides of the dish in which it is standing

Conclusion

• Carbon dioxide is evolved when baking soda is mixed with vinegar
• Carbon dioxide is a heavy when compared to normal “air”
• Carbon dioxide extinguishes flames
• It is commonly used to fill fire extinguishers

NB Vinegar is made from ethanol

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