Ch. 2a Basic Fire Science Flashcards
Fire Science & Dynamics
Define element
Substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances
Define atom
Smallest particle that can exist alone or with hydrogen
Define compound
Combination of elements
What molecule is essential for combustion?
Molecular oxygen (O2)
Is fire endothermic or exothermic?
Exothermic
What are the 3 states of fuel?
Solid, liquid, and gas
Do solids burn?
No, but their pyrolytic gases do when exposed to air
Do liquids combust?
No, but their vapors do
What is the difference between flashpoint and flame point?
Flashpoint is the lowest temp to support a temporary flame while flame point is the lowest temp to support a continuous flame
What does the fire tetrahedron consist of?
Fuel, heat, oxygen/oxidizing agent, & uninhibited chain reactions
Define pyrolysis
Process of breaking down material into simpler compounds via heat
Do pyrolysis gases need oxygen to combust?
No
Define combustion
Oxidative reaction that occurs fast enough to produce heat and usually light
What are the 2 types of combustion?
Complete and incomplete
What are the complete combustion smoke colors?
White, grey, green, and brown
