Description

Steel wool can burn, which may be good or bad.


 

Theories for why steel wool burns:

(1) The production of steel wool involves the use of oil which coats the wires.

(2) Oxidation of the metal on heating.

 

Steel wool can be ignited by:

(1) flame

(2) electricity, including a battery

(3) spark

 

Carrying steel wool with a battery can result in a fire if the steel wool connects the poles of the battery. A 9 volt battery is at increased risk since the poles are close together.

 

Steel wool can burn when wet. This makes it valuable for starting a fire in an emergency.

 


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