Fabula
Object
Object

Ian's Tie-Belt

Physical tie-belt object used in The Web Planet (Part 1) as improvised test material for corrosive acid; directly handled by the Doctor and owned by Ian Chesterton.
2 appearances

Purpose

Test corrosiveness of alien acid pool

Significance

Proves the planet's deadly environment, heightens friction between Ian's caution and the Doctor's focus, and foreshadows hidden creatures amid the pyramid investigation

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments
S2E16 · The Web Planet
Acid pool confirms lethal environment

Ian’s tie-belt, a personal item symbolizing his identity as a teacher from Coal Hill School, is used by the Doctor to test the acid pool’s corrosiveness. Its instant dissolution serves as a stark warning of the planet’s hostility. The destruction of the tie-belt also represents Ian’s growing vulnerability and the loss of a connection to his past life, heightening the emotional stakes of the scene.

Before: Worn around Ian’s waist as a functional and symbolic item, representing his identity and past.
After: Dissolved into the acid pool, reduced to remnants. The tie-belt is no longer functional or symbolic, underscoring the planet’s destructive power.
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S2E16 · The Web Planet
Ian spots movement in the acid pool

Ian’s Coal Hill School tie-belt is used by the Doctor to test the acidity of the pool, dissolving instantly upon contact. The tie becomes a symbolic casualty of the Doctor’s scientific approach, sparking frustration in Ian. When Ian throws the remnants of the tie back into the pool, it dislodges a stone, which triggers the brief appearance of a mega-ant. The tie’s destruction highlights the planet’s hostility and the tension between the Doctor and Ian.

Before: Wrapped around Ian’s waist as a makeshift belt, intact and functional.
After: Dissolved into the acid pool, with only remnants left, now serving as a trigger for the mega-ant’s appearance.
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