What Makes a Perfume Bottle Burst Inside a Flame?

It's because the perfume bottle contains ethyl alcohol. When the bottle is placed inside a flame, the heat causes the ethyl alcohol to evaporate quickly. As the alcohol vapor expands, it creates pressure inside the bottle. If the pressure becomes too great, the bottle can burst or shatter.

Understanding the Science Behind It

Perfumes often contain a high concentration of ethyl alcohol, which serves as a solvent for the fragrance oils. When this alcohol is exposed to a flame, it quickly turns into vapor due to its low boiling point. As the alcohol vaporizes, it expands rapidly, creating a build-up of pressure inside the sealed perfume bottle.

Why the Bottle Bursts

As the pressure inside the bottle increases, it seeks a way to escape. If the bottle is not designed to withstand such high pressure, it can lead to the bottle bursting or shattering. This is why it's crucial to handle perfumes with care and avoid exposing them to open flames or high heat sources.

Preventing Accidents

To prevent accidents like these, it's important to keep perfumes away from any source of ignition or heat. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and open flames. Avoid spraying perfumes near an open flame and handle them with care to minimize the risk of accidents.