Final answer:
During a power outage, the length of time a candle will last can be determined by the rate at which it burns. Mason measures the height of the candles twice and records their height each time. By subtracting the initial height from the final height, Mason can find the amount of candle that has burned. Dividing this amount by the rate at which the candle burns will give him the length of time the candle will last.
Step-by-step explanation:
During a power outage, the length of time a candle will last can be determined by the rate at which it burns. Mason measures the height of the candles twice and records their height each time. By subtracting the initial height from the final height, Mason can find the amount of candle that has burned. Dividing this amount by the rate at which the candle burns will give him the length of time the candle will last. For example, if the rate of burning is 0.5 inches per hour and the candle has burned 6 inches, then the candle will last for 12 hours.