Yes, charcoal glows.
Understanding Charcoal's Glow
Charcoal's glow isn't a flame; it's incandescence. This means it emits light due to its high temperature. The heat generated during combustion causes the charcoal to radiate light, creating the characteristic glow we see. As stated in the provided reference, "The shine is just due to high temperature radiance." This radiant energy is what we perceive as a glow.
The process isn't uniform across the entire piece of charcoal. Variations in density and composition within the charcoal result in different temperatures and therefore intensities of glow. Small pockets of volatile substances or water can even cause sparks or brief, more intense bursts of light due to localized, rapid combustion.
Factors Affecting Charcoal Glow:
- Temperature: Higher temperatures lead to brighter glows.
- Charcoal Composition: The type of wood used to create the charcoal affects its burn rate and glow intensity.
- Oxygen Supply: Adequate airflow is crucial for maintaining the high temperatures needed for glowing.
