Yes, wax crayons do melt.
Crayola® Crayons, for example, are made from paraffin wax and color pigment. These crayons start to melt at around 105° Fahrenheit and have a melting point between 120° and 147° Fahrenheit. This means that they will become softer and eventually liquid as they are heated.
Here's a breakdown of how crayons melt:
- Softening: At around 105°F, crayons will begin to soften. They might become pliable and easy to bend or break.
- Melting: The melting process occurs between 120° - 147°F. At this temperature, the wax will turn into liquid.
Factors Affecting Melting:
- Temperature: The higher the temperature, the faster the crayon will melt.
- Direct Heat: Placing a crayon directly on a hot surface will melt it quicker than indirect heat.
- Crayon Type: While the base ingredients of paraffin wax and color pigment are the same for all Crayola crayon colors, special effect crayons might have different melting points due to additives.
| Crayon Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Approximate Softening Point | 105° Fahrenheit |
| Melting Point Range | 120° - 147° Fahrenheit |
Practical Insights:
- Sunlight: Be aware that leaving crayons in direct sunlight or a hot car can lead to them softening or melting.
- Art Projects: Melted crayons can be used for interesting art projects. However, use caution when melting crayons, especially with kids and always use proper ventilation.
- Storage: Store crayons in a cool, dry place to prevent unwanted melting.
In summary, the main ingredient, paraffin wax, in crayons will melt at relatively low temperatures, so precautions should be taken to store them properly to prevent melting.
