Steel wool is a common household item that is made from thin strands of steel that have been twisted together to form a fibrous material. It is often used for cleaning and polishing surfaces, and it is known for its ability to scrub away dirt and grime. However, steel wool can also burn under certain circumstances. But why exactly does steel wool burn?

One reason why steel wool burns is due to its high conductivity. Steel is a good conductor of electricity, and steel wool has a high surface area due to its fibrous nature. When steel wool is placed in contact with an electrical current, it can heat up rapidly due to its high conductivity and surface area. If the steel wool reaches a high enough temperature, it can ignite and burn.

Another reason why steel wool burns is due to the presence of oxygen. Steel wool is highly reactive with oxygen, and the thin strands of steel in the wool are prone to oxidation. When the steel wool is placed in contact with oxygen, it can begin to burn due to the exothermic reaction that occurs between the steel and the oxygen.

It is also worth noting that steel wool can burn in the presence of a strong enough ignition source, such as a flame or a spark. The thin strands of steel in the wool are highly flammable, and they can ignite and burn if exposed to an ignition source.

In conclusion, steel wool burns due to its high conductivity, reactivity with oxygen, and flammability. It is important to handle steel wool with care and to be aware of the potential fire hazard it poses. It is also a good idea to have a fire extinguisher nearby when using steel wool, as it can be difficult to extinguish once it has ignited.