Why do flames from a fire flicker and dance? They move around and grow and ebb instead of staying in one place until that area is consumed.
Question #130518. Asked by deputygary.
Last updated Jan 30 2018.
Originally posted Apr 14 2013 6:22 AM.
kaddarsgirl
Answer has 2 votes
kaddarsgirl 19 year member
110 replies
Answer has 2 votes.
Flames flicker when the air around them is disturbed. This happens when there is too little or too much airflow around the flame. Flames turn oxygen to carbon dioxide and heat the air around them. Both of these can cause a flame to flicker even when there is no discernible breeze.
http://candles.org/candle-science/