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A Forest FireA Science Demonstration

“Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small

spark.” (James 3:5)

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In James 3:3-5, our words (or tongues) are likened to what three things?

3

Our words can be used to build others up or to tear them down. Once a false

statement is released, it has a life of its own and spreads from person to person.

4

Just a few days ago, on May 9, 2012, three workers were injured in a flash fire at a

Sinclair refinery near Rawlins, Wyoming.

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A flash fire is a fire that spreads rapidly through a fuel

suspended in the air, such as dust or the vapors of certain liquids. The fire can be three seconds or less, but is fast-

moving and intense.

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Supplies:

Lighted candleNewspaper, dampened

Powder--talcum, cornstarch, or foot powder, for example

It is essential you work from a height of 1-2 feet above the candle to protect

yourself from the flash.

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This is a fire department video about how the smoke from heating oil can

ignite in a flash: http://www.youtube.com/watch?

v=suce6QNkVRI

And the end of this video shows a slow motion flash fire:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wMRL2bVKc4&feature=related

8

Flash fires are chain reactions. When a single dust particle ignites, for example,

it produces smoke and flame as it vaporizes. This flame reaches several

other suspended dust particles which, in turn, continue the process, causing a

substantial flash.

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10

A rumor is like a flash fire and quickly spreads once it is started.

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A nuclear explosion is a chain reaction like the flash fire is. An atom splits when a neutron particle collides with it which

releases other neutrons. These neutrons, in turn, hit other atoms. More neutrons are

released, and a chain reaction occurs. Energy is thus produced in a controlled

manner.

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13

Next Week: Nothing Hidden

“But and if ye will not do so, behold, ye sin against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out.” (Numbers 32:23)

“Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of

him with whom we have to do.” Hebrews 4:13)

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You will need:

2 glass jarsLiquid dishwashing detergent

Hard water and soft water samples