Candles are just a tool we use to slow down the reactions between the fuel (wax) and the oxygen in the air. We may use a match to light the wick, but once lit, the flame provides the heat necessary to melt the wax, which then travels up the wick in liquid form as fuel for the fire. That’s why trimming the wick is necessary, because if the flame is too far away from the wax, it will not melt the wax and won’t be able to fuel itself.
