The Chemical History of a Candle

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Michael Faraday was a humble Englishman who lacked formal education and yet had a brilliant and very inventive mind. He was also an excellent teacher, and knew how to explain difficult topics to the average audience. His lifelong persistence in scientific wonder led to many astounding discoveries and inventions. The most famous are those in the area of electromagnetics – the relations between electricity and magnetism.

Later in life however, he delivered a series of free and informal lectures on various scientific subjects to the public, including children. These delightful talks – full of interesting demonstrations – were popular amongst the English elites, the common man, and even children. Six of these lectures were devoted to the marvelous and complex science involved in the burning of the simple household candle. Do not, however, let the seemingly commonplace and ordinary subject matter fool you! Like the author of these lectures himself, there is much more than meets the eye. Faraday shows many fascinating things that occur when a flame consumes wax. But he does not stop with the candle – an amazing surprise awaits as he applies his findings from the candle to our own bodies.

Christ the King Books has taken these six Faraday lectures and added notes, explanations, and diagrams. These annotations, combined with Faraday’s already easy-going style, make for a pleasant and rewarding experience. A short an easier read, perfect as an addition for any science curricula. There is something for the young and the old in these lectures, including adults; thus, we suggest this book for the student in grades 8 – 12. 50 pages.