The Mysteries of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Cauldron Flame

When cameras captured the 2020 Tokyo Olympic flame, a striking bright yellow orange color emerged from the cauldron. This phenomenon has puzzled many curious spectators, including Mike Jones. Let's explore why the flame appears the way it does and the science behind it.

Understanding the Flame

Did you notice that the flame isn't as colorless and almost invisible, as some might expect from a pure hydrogen fuel? While hydrogen burns with a colorless, almost invisible flame, the Olympic flame appears vibrant and distinct. One possible explanation, as suggested by enthusiasts like Mike Jones, is the addition of sodium carbonate. This substance can turn a flame a bright yellow orange, much like it does in a flame test for sodium.

The Role of Sodium Carbonate

Sodium carbonate, also known as soda ash, is a common household compound. When added to a hydrogen flame, sodium carbonate can significantly alter the hue of the flame. Misting a small amount of sodium carbonate solution into the flame can result in a bright yellow-orange color. This effect is similar to what you would see in a flame test for sodium, where a solution of a sodium salt, such as sodium chloride (NaCl), sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), or sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), is used.

The Composition of the Flame

It's important to note that the flame was not entirely composed of hydrogen. While hydrogen was used as a fuel, the torch relay included propane as a supplementary fuel. Propane, a hydrocarbon, can contribute to the yellow-orange color of the flame due to the presence of carbon particles in the flame. These particles glow red or orange, which explains the bright color.

Historical Context and Modern Practices

Throughout history, the Olympic flame has evolved to meet the needs of visibility and the spirit of the games. In earlier times, more flammable and easily visible substances were used to ensure the flame remained prominent. For instance, in 1996, the Atlanta Games used a mixture of natural gas and kerosene. Similarly, the Tokyo 2020 flame might have incorporated additives to ensure it was as bright and easy to see as possible.

Technical Insights and Green Considerations

The addition of sodium carbonate to the flame is a clever solution, not just aesthetically but also more environmentally friendly. By using eco-friendly hydrogen as the primary fuel and incorporating sodium carbonate for visibility, the organizers can achieve a bright, visible flame without compromising the environmental integrity of the event.

A bright yellow-orange flame generally signifies the presence of sodium, which can be achieved through relatively simple means. Just a small misting of brine solution can turn a hydrogen flame into a visible, vibrant one. Such practices reflect a commitment to greenwashing—presenting green initiatives without the complexity or cost of complete renewable energy solutions.

Conclusion

The bright yellow-orange flame of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic cauldron is a testament to the ingenuity and scientific understanding behind the games. By leveraging the properties of sodium carbonate, the organizers have ensured a visually stunning and eco-friendly flame for the spectators' enjoyment. While the flame may not be purely hydrogen, the combination of hydrocarbons and sodium carbonate provides a striking and memorable visual experience, aligning with the Olympic spirit of innovation and sustainability.