Candle-powered motion —a simple heat engine
Heating and working
A heat engine is a device in which a temperature difference drives a transfer of energy in such a way that the engine does mechanical work. For example, a candle flame produces hot gases, which rise because they are less dense than the surrounding air. This rising gas can be used to turn a small fan-shaped piece of foil. The temperature difference between hot gas and cooler air drives the convection, which leads to a transfer of energy to the foil. The foil does work on its surroundings, which become slightly warmer as a result. This may be great fun, but that is where it ends.
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