The basic process of fire is the application of sufficient heat to fuel. As the fuel gets hotter, its atoms vibrate and break free of the bonds that hold them together. They then react with the oxygen in the air and release gases that emit a great deal of heat. This chemical reaction can continue as long as there is fuel and oxygen. The result is a release of heat energy that is then converted into visible light called flames. But how does fire happen?
Colors of flames
Flames are colorless until they burn something. There are several reasons for this, including the chemical makeup of the burning substance. Some substances emit heat that produces blue or green flames. Others emit red or orange flames. In addition to the color of the burning substance, flames also change color depending on how much oxygen is present. Blue and orange flames are the result of burning carbon, a solid, or hydrocarbon gas.
Combustible gases
Combustible gases are the gases that ignite rapidly and cause fire. Fire occurs when a fuel is ignited, and the resulting mixture of flammable gases and vapors is a precursor to combustion. Although some mixtures of these gases can spread flame rapidly, they do so only at high pressures and temperatures. All fuel gases and vapors have lower and upper limits of flammability, and examples are listed in Table I.
Flame tetrahedron
The flame tetrahedron is the geometric shape of a fire, similar to the triangle of the same name. Its basic shape is based on the components of fire extinguishing agents. Water is a common extinguishing agent that absorbs heat and eliminates the fire’s hazard. Water is also inexpensive and effective at eliminating fire hazards. It is also used to better understand the characteristics of flames.
Chemical reactions in a fire
Fire occurs when two substances, usually gasoline or wood, react with oxygen in the air to form a flame. The heat produced by the fire causes the atoms in the fuel to break down and recombine with oxygen atoms in the air. The recombination creates new compounds and heat. This process is self-perpetuating. However, fire can be dangerous if not controlled. Here are some basic steps to prevent fires.
Effects on the environment
Wildfires are the most common causes of land change in some ecosystems, and they pose many threats to human life and existing infrastructure. Depending on the location, fires can cause devastating damage to vegetation and ecosystems, requiring immediate attention and action. To understand fire ecology, this article will briefly cover its impact on climate change and how to prevent it. Wildfires also create severe economic and social impacts. Wildfires can affect all levels of society, from local to global.
Methods of extinguishing a fire
Fires can be put out in many different ways, and each method applies certain techniques. In general, there are four main types of fire extinguishers. Each of these is effective at combating a specific type of fire. Depending on the type of fire, the right type of extinguisher can save the day. Learn more about each of them by reading this book. Here are the different methods: