Pyrotechnic chemistry drives the Vatican’s recipes for the black and white smoke used to announce papal election outcomes ...

Rather than soot, the smoke contains microscopic droplets and fine solids that are transparent or white. The result is a ...

The liquefaction plant in North Van's Maplewood neighbourhood will be the largest of its kind in Western Canada ...

This selection comes after two days of conclave in the Sistine Chapel, tying the modern record for the fastest selection of a pope.

anthracene, and sulfur. White smoke is created by burning ballots with a mixture of potassium chlorate, lactose, and rosin.

anthracene, and sulfur. White smoke is created by burning ballots with a mixture of potassium chlorate, lactose, and rosin.

Potassium chlorate (KClO₃) – even more reactive than perchlorate – ensures a hot, vigorous burn. Lactose acts as the fuel, burning quickly and cleanly into water vapour and carbon dioxide.

Meanwhile, white smoke is produced using a much cleaner fuel mix and a more powerful oxidiser. Potassium chlorate (KClO₃) – even more reactive than perchlorate – ensures a hot, vigorous burn. Lactose ...

And if a new pope has been elected, potassium chlorate, lactose and chloroform resin would be added to produce white smoke. Has a pope ever been elected on the first ballot? It is possible for a ...