[The Chemical Moose]

I have been reading where as part of the conclave to elect the new Pope if the ballot is unsuccessful, the papers are burned along with a "chemical compound" in order to produce black smoke (fumata nera).

Apparently wet straw had traditionally been used to help create the black smoke, but a number of "false alarms" in the past has brought about this concession to modern chemistry. A successful ballot is signalled by white smoke (fumata bianca).

I'm a high school chemistry teacher, and whilst it may appear terrible to capitalise upon the Pope's death, I would love to be able to discuss the chemicals used with my class.

Does anyone know what chemicals are used?

[Borek]

No idea about chemicals used, but:

from what I have read new law introduced by Jan Pawe? II doesn't state anything about the white and black fume, while it describes very precisely every aspect of the new Pope selection. Seems it is not clear whether the 'smoke' tradition will be held this time.

[AWK]

Benzene, when burned produces black smoke.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope