The Chemical History of a Candle
Michael Faraday
20 min
7 Key Points
5 RateWhat's inside?
Explore the fascinating science behind a simple candle, from its combustion to its light, and discover the fundamental principles of chemistry in everyday life.
You'll learn
1. What's the science behind a candle's flame?2. Why does fire need oxygen?3. How does a candle wick suck up wax?4. What's a chemical reaction and what does it make?5. Why should we experiment and observe in science?6. What cool science stuff was discovered in the 1800s?Key points
01The Spark: Early Life and Education
In the humble beginnings of a young boy born into a family of modest means in Newham, Surrey, England, lay the seeds of a scientific revolution. Born on September 22, 1791, Michael Faraday's early life was marked by financial struggles and limited formal education. However, these challenges did not deter him; instead, they fueled his intellectual curiosity and determination to learn. Faraday's father, James, was a blacksmith who grappled with poor health, which often impeded his ability to work and support the family. His mother, Margaret, was a beacon of resilience, working tirelessly to keep the family afloat amidst their financial struggles. Despite the hardships, the family's spirit remained unbroken, and this resilience was a trait that Faraday would carry with him throughout his life. The lack of financial resources meant that Faraday's formal education was limited to basic reading, writing, and arithmetic skills, which he acquired at a local Sunday school. However, this did not stifle his intellectual curiosity. On the contrary, it ignited a spark within him, a thirst for knowledge that would guide his path towards becoming one of the most influential scientists of his time. At the age of 14, Faraday was apprenticed to a local bookbinder and bookseller, George Riebau. This seven-year apprenticeship was a turning point in his life. It was here, amidst the pages of the books he bound, that Faraday was introduced to a world of knowledge. He read widely on a variety of subjects, but it was the field of science, particularly electricity and magnetism, that captivated his interest. One book, "Conversations on Chemistry" by Jane Marcet, had a profound impact on Faraday. It ignited his passion for science and inspired him to conduct his own experiments. This passion led him to attend public lectures on science, notably those by Sir Humphry Davy at the Royal Institution. His determination and enthusiasm caught the attention of Davy, who offered him employment at the Institution in 1813. Faraday's early life is a testament to the power of curiosity and determination. Despite the challenges he faced, his insatiable thirst for knowledge and his unwavering determination to learn laid the foundation for his future achievements in the field of science. His story serves as a reminder that adversity can often be a catalyst for greatness, and that a humble beginning can lead to extraordinary achievements.
02Ignition: The Royal Institution and Initial Experiments
The year 1812 marked a pivotal moment in the annals of scientific history. A young man, inspired by a series of lectures he attended, embarked on a journey that would revolutionize the world of chemistry and physics. This young man's name was Michael Faraday, and his journey began at the Royal Institution. The lectures Faraday attended were delivered by Sir Humphry Davy, a renowned chemist of the time. These lectures ignited Faraday's interest in chemistry, leading him to apply for a job at the Royal Institution. Despite facing initial rejection, Faraday's tenacity eventually led to his appointment as a laboratory assistant in 1813. This marked the beginning of a series of groundbreaking experiments and discoveries that would shape the future of science. Faraday's early work at the Royal Institution primarily revolved around chemical analysis and synthesis. Working closely with Davy, Faraday assisted in research on iodine and chlorine. His meticulous nature and keen observational skills were instrumental in these experiments, leading to several significant discoveries. This early period of Faraday's career was characterized by his unwavering dedication to scientific exploration and his ability to make keen observations that others often overlooked. In 1833, Faraday embarked on a series of experiments that would lead to one of his most notable contributions to the field of chemistry - the discovery of electrolysis. Through these experiments, Faraday discovered that the amount of a substance deposited at an electrode during electrolysis is directly proportional to the amount of electricity passed through the solution. This principle, now known as Faraday's Law of Electrolysis, is a fundamental concept in electrochemistry. Faraday's contributions were not limited to the field of chemistry. He also made significant strides in the field of magnetism. In 1821, he discovered electromagnetic rotation, a principle that forms the basis for the electric motor. This discovery was a direct result of his experiments with magnetic fields and electric currents, demonstrating Faraday's ability to transcend disciplinary boundaries in his scientific pursuits. The early years of Faraday's career at the Royal Institution were marked by a series of groundbreaking discoveries and experiments. His work laid the foundation for many modern scientific principles and technologies, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential scientists of the 19th century. Faraday's journey from a curious observer to a pioneering scientist serves as a testament to the power of persistence, curiosity, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. His story is a beacon of inspiration, illuminating the path for future generations of scientists.
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03The Flame: Discoveries and Innovations
04The Glow: Faraday as a Lecturer and Public Figure
05The Flicker: Later Life and Legacy
06The Extinguishing: Faraday's Death and Posthumous Recognition
07Conclusion
About Michael Faraday
Michael Faraday was a renowned British scientist known for his significant contributions to the fields of electromagnetism and electrochemistry. He invented the electric motor and the Faraday cage, and his experiments paved the way for electricity to become a viable technology for use in technology.