Torch

The Torch is a type of block found in Indev onwards since the support for dynamic lighting. It is one of the many blocks that emit light. In addition, it adjusts its model in relation to the surrounding blocks, so that it looks like it's attached to any surrounding walls. They look similar to Redstone torches in appearance.

In a blog post, Notch announced that torches will become temporary sources of light that will eventually go out. They will need to be relit with flint and steel. The permanent torch will be replaced with lanterns, and all torches that exist already in saved games whether placed, stored or in inventory will become lanterns. This was supposed to take effect on October. 31st with the Halloween Update, but it was postponed until a later update.

From just one log and eight pieces of coal 32 torches can be made, making them an easily obtainable item.

Properties
Torches act as a full square, for the purpose of placing other objects or torches in the same area. Being a solid brick, this even prevents sand and gravel from falling down past a square with a torch on it, making it possible to build a roof completely out of these materials. If sand or gravel fall onto a torch they break, if they are placed directly above a torch they act as if they were on any other solid material. This allows them to be used as environmental triggers, such as Airlocks. Players can pass through torches, and therefore a torch can be placed directly under the player without the player needing to move or jump. Torches also melt nearby snow and ice, making them useful to keep skylights from being snowed over and lakes from freezing in winter maps. Since monsters spawn in darkness, it is common to use torches as light sources. However, some people use alternatives, such as fire and lava lighting.

Torch placement
* Torches may be placed on the sides of open-able blocks such as chests by having another block which a torch cannot be placed on (such as glass or another torch) also facing the cube where the torch should be placed, and attempting to place a torch on it. The torch will instead attach to an acceptable block such as the chest.

** Torches can be placed on the block if fast graphics is on. Switching to fast graphics, placing the torch and then switching back to fancy will not remove the torch.

Glitches

 * There is a glitch that causes torches to not work properly if exposed to direct sunlight. This can be fixed by replacing the torch.