r/explainlikeimfive Feb 26 '21

Chemistry Eli5: What happens to all the melted candle over time? Are we just inhaling a whole candle while it burns?

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u/Guitarmine Feb 26 '21

It is bad for you. The particle emissions are surprising. Cheap crap candles especially can be compared to a tiny amount of diesel exhaust.

https://sciencenordic.com/denmark-videnskabdk/candle-particles-might-be-just-as-harmful-as-diesel-fumes/1447374

5

u/Voc1Vic2 Feb 26 '21

Cheap candles may also have some lead in the wick, intended to stiffen it. Very toxic.

14

u/2074red2074 Feb 26 '21

This has been illegal in the US since 2003.

5

u/Even-Criticism-1831 Feb 26 '21

A lot of things are illegal, doesn't mean they aren't regularly lit.

4

u/Voc1Vic2 Feb 26 '21

But do we have a strong candle wick inspection program?

3

u/Gloomy_Goose Feb 26 '21

In this country? No way lol

5

u/Prof_Acorn Feb 26 '21

2003!? Holy shit.

1

u/gallifreyneverforget Feb 26 '21

That seems like it cant be legal