So they use one of the oldest methods of long-distance communication: smoke signals. After the cardinals' votes are counted, the paper ballots are burned in a stove in the Sistine Chapel.

The first time white smoke was the indicator that a new pope was elected was in 1914. The previous pope, Pius X, had mandated in 1904 that all papers related to the election, not just the ballots ...

When the cardinals vote, they burn their ballots and send up smoke to signal their decision: white smoke to show they have ...

But what kind of smoke is it exactly? Let's take a look at the science. The tradition of cardinals burning their ballot papers to maintain secrecy dates back to at least the 15th century.

It’s probably the most-watched smoke in the world: The billows of exhaust unfurl before the watchful eyes of thousands every conclave — the only communication allowed from the cardinals locked ...

the cardinals will write their choices on simple paper ballots, which will be counted, recorded and later burned to maintain secrecy. Enhanced by chemicals, the color of smoke from those burning ...

But what kind of smoke is it exactly? Let’s take a look at the science. The tradition of cardinals burning their ballot papers to maintain secrecy dates back to at least the 15th century.