Why is the fuel compartment in a lighter divided into two parts except for a very narrow gap at the top?

GQ I’ve always wondered this too, will follow with interest

Maybe it reinforces the strength of the lighter? Like it would probably be highly combustible when the lighter is in a pocket or in the sun and would be more apt to explode if it didn’t have that extra chuck of plastic in the middle for more strength??

I dunno that’s just a guess lol

@OutOfTheBlue Excellent guess.. and probably correct. My first thought was that it was something like a carburetor.. in a way mixing just the right amount of fuel with air.. but… your answer sounds more likely… lol

If this patent is any indication, it serves to slow the escape of butane when the lighter is lit.

You may find this metafilter discussion of interest.

When the fuel is running low the straw will not be able to suck up fuel if the lighter is at an extreme angle. If the chamber is divided in half than the angle that the lighter can be held at while still allowing the lighter to be usable will be greatly increased

@laureth You’re my hero. I wouldn’t have thought of looking there.

@arpinum makes a lot of sense, too.

Great answers! Love you guys.