My new(ish) apartment has a gas stove in it, and I have to wonder... is it normal for it to randomly warm and cool at various intervals during the day, even while turned off? I can heat bread by leaving it on the stovetop for ten minutes.

the pilot lights under the stove top are probably giving the heat. these SHOULD be lit at all times. if the stove top is cool the pilots are out. if you smell gas, don't strike a match.
d.

Okay. Thanks, D!

Yep, gas stoves are always hot on top.

Infact if you leave a Glade 3-layered clean-cotton-smelling candle on the top it will definitely melt all over in a tri-colored waxy creation. But your house will smell great forever.

Just guessing...i mean...err...i've never done that.

I'll have to try that! Thanks!