The temperature of different parts in a flame

In summary, during a lab experiment, the participants measured the temperature of a flame and wrote a report. Upon receiving feedback, they were asked to explain the temperature maximum at a certain point. After measuring above the blue part of the flame, they moved to the side in 1mm increments and reached a maximum temperature at 7-8mm. One theory is that the thermal-elements used were inaccurate, but there are also questions about the best methan-oxygen mix being a factor. A picture of the flame suggests that the "main reaction zone" may be the reason for the temperature maximum.
  • #1
Larsson
28
0
We had a laboration where we did some temperature measurments on a flame and wrote a report on this. We got it back and were told to explain more deeply why we had a temperature maximum at a certain point.

What happened was this. We started to meassure on the point located preciecly above the blue part of the flame. Then we stepped out to the side with steps of 1mm. At 7-8mm we reached a temperature maximum. How can I expalin what happened there? One theory is that I can just blame the thermal-elements we used and say that we did an inaccurate meassurment. But I'm not really sure that would do the trick. Got some wounderings about perhaps it has something to do with that we have the best methan-oxygen mix there (we had an methan oxygen flame)

thanks for any help
 
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  • #2
I found this picture and figured it might be that we reach the "main reaction zone" . Could that be a possible reason?

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/c/c0/Flames.jpg
 
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What causes different temperatures in different parts of a flame?

The temperature of a flame is determined by the chemical reaction between oxygen and fuel. In the inner cone of the flame, where oxygen is abundant, the temperature can reach up to 2,500 degrees Celsius. On the outer edges, where there is less oxygen, the temperature is lower.

Why is the color of a flame related to its temperature?

The color of a flame is determined by the energy released during the combustion process. The higher the temperature, the more energy is released, resulting in a brighter and hotter flame. Different chemicals and fuels can also produce different colored flames.

What is the hottest part of a flame?

The hottest part of a flame is the inner cone, also known as the blue cone. This is where the fuel and oxygen are mixed in the perfect ratio, resulting in the highest temperature. The outer edges, or yellow part of the flame, are cooler as there is less oxygen present.

Can the temperature of a flame be controlled?

Yes, the temperature of a flame can be controlled by adjusting the amount of fuel and oxygen present. By increasing the amount of oxygen, the flame will burn hotter and brighter. Conversely, decreasing the oxygen supply will result in a cooler flame.

Why is it important to know the temperature of different parts of a flame?

Understanding the temperature of different parts of a flame is crucial in various industries such as welding, metallurgy, and chemistry. It allows for precise control of the combustion process and can help determine the efficiency of a fuel source. Additionally, knowing the temperature can also provide information about the chemical reactions occurring within the flame.

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