Torch

Studentenfackelzug ("Student torchlight procession"), 1859 oil painting by German painter Adolph von Menzel.

A torch is a stick with combustible material at one end, which is ignited and used as a light source. Torches have been used throughout history. Sometimes, in modern usage "torch" is the term to refer to a flashlight.

Dependencies

• Stick
  • Torch
    • Fire

Usage

Lighting

Torches have historically served as portable sources of light, used in exploration, ceremonies, signaling, and as improvised weapons or symbols of protest. For optimal effectiveness, a torch should be held above head height and slightly behind the user. This position minimizes smoke inhalation, prevents hot embers from falling forward, and casts light ahead of the user’s path without blinding glare. Holding it this way also enhances peripheral vision in low-light environments and reduces interference with forward movement particularly important in confined or hazardous settings like caves, tunnels, or dense vegetation.

Defense

Torches may serve as a basic defensive tool. The open flame can act as a deterrent against wild animals, especially those unfamiliar with fire. While not a reliable means of protection against aggressive predators, the presence of fire may discourage approach in some cases

Insect Repellent

The smoke released by burning torches, particularly those made with resinous woods or infused with natural oils and saps (such as pine resin, citronella, or eucalyptus), can act as a rudimentary insect repellent. In some regions, dried animal dung has historically been burned in torches or campfires to produce thick, acrid smoke that repels biting insects like mosquitoes and flies. While not pleasant, this method can provide practical relief in environments where insects pose a serious nuisance or health risk.

Communication

Torches have also been used for signaling and communication, especially before the advent of modern lighting or radio. Waving a torch, placing torches in specific patterns, or using multiple flames at varied intervals can convey basic messages over distances — such as distress signals, rally points, or simple directional indicators. In some cultures and settings, torches are used in ceremonial or ritualistic communication to symbolize leadership, warning, or unity.

See also

• Matches
• Tools

References

This article uses material from the Wikipedia article Torch, which is released under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License (view authors).