The Vatican began the selection of a new pope on the 7th, but the first day of the conclave did not result in the election of a new pope.
At approximately 3 a.m. Malaysian time on the 8th, black smoke emerged from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel. According to tradition, the Sistine Chapel announces the outcome of the election through its chimney. Black smoke indicates no decision has been made, whereas white smoke signifies the election of a new pope. This process will continue until white smoke appears.
On the 7th, only one vote was conducted. Thereafter, the cardinals may vote up to four times each day. A candidate must receive two-thirds of the votes to be elected as pope.
The average duration of the past 10 conclaves has been slightly more than three days, with none exceeding five days. The 2013 conclave lasted only two days, resulting in the election of Pope Francis, who passed away last month.
Pope Francis, born in Argentina, passed away in Rome on April 21, at the age of 88.