few theories 1. the melting point is higher than the burning point 2. not sure whether there is any rule that something as complex as wood should melt - the rule applies to elements and maybe compounds By the way eggs behave in quite the opposite way - they solidify when heated. answer that!
As for eggs turning hard on heating or meat firming up on cooking it happens because the proteins in eggs, meat or the skin on curdled milk (complex substances like in your Point 2) are thermally unstable.
11 comments:
it does start to melt for a microsecond before it burns.. the melt cycle is too short to be noticed..
few theories
1. the melting point is higher than the burning point
2. not sure whether there is any rule that something as complex as wood should melt - the rule applies to elements and maybe compounds
By the way eggs behave in quite the opposite way - they solidify when heated. answer that!
@ Chrys - Absolutely right.
As for eggs turning hard on heating or meat firming up on cooking it happens because the proteins in eggs, meat or the skin on curdled milk (complex substances like in your Point 2) are thermally unstable.
i like "thermally unstable" its so vaguely erudite
We could use the scientific term 'denatured' instead, if you prefer it:)
Wood doesn't melt coz it not a meltal... oops metal
Hahaha
Can I get back to you on this?
Hmmm...as fascinating as the question might be....
@iz - :-)
It used to melt before it found that burning up was more fun.
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