Question

You can comfortably hold your fingers close beside a candle flame, but not very close above the flame. why? challenge (optional): why do candle flames quickly snuff out in gravity-free regions?

Answer 1

The candle flame releases hot gases, which directly go in upwards directions. Due to which the air near the flame of the candle is very hot and dense. The particles along with vapour move up. And since the sideways, the air is not very dense and hot, we are able to hold the candle. In anti-gravity region, there will be no density differences and also, the convection process wont occur. So, the candle quickly snuffs off.

Answer 2

Candle flame gases go up and not out, so your hand is okay with being next to the flame and not above it. You can also see the gases above the flame if you look. :)