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As the mass of the solid fuel is melted and consumed, the candle grows
shorter. Portions of the wick that are not evaporating the liquid fuel are
themselves consumed in the flame, limiting the exposed length of the wick.
Usage
Prior to the domestication of electricity, candles were a common source of
lighting, before, and later in addition to, the oil lamp. Due to local
availability and the cost of resources, for several centuries up to the 19th
century candles were more common in northern Europe, and olive oil lamps
more common in southern Europe and around the Mediterranean Sea.
Makers of candles were known as chandlers.
Today, candles are usually used for their aesthetic value, particularly to set
a soft, warm, or romantic ambience, and for emergency lighting during
electrical power failures. Scented candles are common in aromatherapy.
Small candles are often placed on birthday cakes.
Religion
Candles are used in religious ceremonies.
Christianity
In Christianity, they typically represent the light of Jesus, and are often
placed on the altar. Votive candles may be lit as an accompaniment to
prayer. Candles are lit by worshippers in front of icons in Orthodox and
other churches.
Candlemas marks the end of the season of Epiphany.
Candles were traditionally used to light up Christmas trees before the
advent of electric lights. They are still, even today, commonly used to
decorate Christmas trees in Denmark and other European countries. They
are also used in Advent wreaths.
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