The Vatican eventually sought to clarify matters by formalising the practice of fumata nera (black smoke) and fumata bianca (white smoke). Initially, damp straw and tar were added to the burning ...

Black smoke means a new pope has not been elected. White smoke means there is a new pope. So where does this tradition come from – and how do they achieve the different coloured smoke?

Here's what to know about the tradition of black and white smoke in conjunction with the selection of a new pope. What is a papal conclave? A papal conclave is an election to choose a new pope, held ...

For three votes, the smoke spewed out in thick black billows, indicating a new pope has yet to be chosen. The conclave needs 77 votes, or a two-thirds majority from 115 cardinal-electors, for a ...

Black smoke emerging from the chimney means the world's 1.4 billion Catholics don't yet have a new pope. White smoke means the cardinals have chosen a new leader of the church.

Meanwhile, white smoke is produced using a much cleaner fuel mix and a more powerful oxidiser. Potassium chlorate (KClO₃) – even more reactive than perchlorate – ensures a hot, vigorous burn.