Name________________________________

Date________________ Period____________

Candle Lab

Physical and Chemical Changes

1. Observe the unlit candle. In the space below, write four observations about the physical properties of
the candle. Remember observations use your senses to gather information about an object or event.
a.

b.

c.

d.

2. After you light your candle, and the candle has burned for at least a minute, cover the candle with your
glass beaker.
a. What happened to the flame?

b. What caused the event in “a” to occur? (What element is needed for a substance to burn?)

c. Was it a Physical or Chemical change? Provide two reasons why.

●

3. Redo the procedure for number two, but this time record how many seconds the candle will burn
under the glass beaker.
a. Number of seconds ___________
b. Number of seconds the group next to you recorded___________
 4. Light your candle and observe it as it burns. Record three qualitative and three quantitative
observations in the spaces below.

Qualitative Observations Quantitative Observations

5. Ordinary table sugar contains the elements (atoms) carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Get a test tube
filled with a small amount of sugar, and place over the candle flame. Hold the test tube at the top to
avoid burning your fingers. Observe what happens to the sugar. Record six observations in the spaces
below. Label each one by writing either a P or a C next to the bullet noting physical or chemical change.

1. ________ 4. ________

2. ________ 5. ________

3. ________ 6. ________