Procedures

Follow these step-by-step instructions to build your candle carousel and conduct the experiment. Read through all steps before beginning, and ensure you have all materials ready.

🔨 Building the Carousel

1️⃣ Step 1: Build the Carousel Base

  1. Cut or use a flat, stable base approximately 20-25 cm in diameter
  2. Mark positions for 4 candles evenly spaced around the center (about 6-8 cm from center)
  3. Secure clay or playdough at each marked position to hold candles

2️⃣ Step 2: Create the Center Axle

  1. Push the wooden skewer vertically through the center of the base
  2. Ensure the skewer stands perfectly vertical (check from all sides)
  3. The skewer should extend 15-20 cm above the base
  4. Secure at the bottom with clay or by mounting in a small nut

3️⃣ Step 3: Construct the Carousel Blades

  1. Cut a circle from aluminum foil or pie pan (approximately 12-15 cm diameter)
  2. Mark the center point of the circle
  3. Divide the circle into 6-8 equal sections by drawing lines from edge toward center
  4. Cut along the lines, stopping about 1-2 cm from the center
  5. Carefully bend each section at an angle of 30-40 degrees (measure with protractor)
  6. All blades should be bent in the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise)
  7. Poke a small hole in the center

4️⃣ Step 4: Assemble the Carousel

  1. Place a small metal nut or bead on top of the skewer as a bearing
  2. Carefully place the blade assembly on top of the nut/bearing
  3. Ensure the blades can spin freely without touching the skewer or wobbling
  4. The blades should be positioned 8-12 cm above where the candle flames will be

🧪 Conducting the Experiment

5️⃣ Step 5: Conduct the First Test

  1. Test 1: Place 1 candle on the base and light it
  2. Wait 30 seconds for convection currents to establish
  3. Count the number of complete rotations in 1 minute
  4. Record the data
  5. Blow out the candle and wait 2 minutes for air to settle

6️⃣ Step 6: Repeat with Different Numbers of Candles

  1. Test 2: Place 2 candles opposite each other, light them, and repeat measurement
  2. Test 3: Place 3 candles evenly spaced, light them, and repeat measurement
  3. Test 4: Place 4 candles evenly spaced, light them, and repeat measurement

7️⃣ Step 7: Conduct Multiple Trials

  1. Repeat the entire experiment 3 times for each candle configuration
  2. Calculate the average rotations per minute for each configuration
  3. Record all data in your data table

⚠️ Safety Precautions

IMPORTANT: Always follow these safety guidelines:

  • Conduct experiment on a non-flammable surface
  • Keep paper and flammable materials away from candles
  • Never leave burning candles unattended
  • Have adult supervision at all times
  • Keep hands away from the area above the flames (hot air can cause burns)
  • Ensure the room has adequate ventilation
  • Have a fire extinguisher or water nearby as a precaution
  • Wait for candles to cool completely before handling

💡 Tips for Success

  • Make sure the skewer is perfectly vertical—use a level or check from multiple angles
  • Ensure all blades are bent at the same angle and in the same direction
  • Wait the full 30 seconds after lighting candles before starting measurements
  • Count complete rotations carefully—mark one blade to help track rotations
  • Keep the room as still as possible (no fans, closed windows)
  • Use fresh candles for each trial to ensure consistent flame size
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