Climate change and wildfire Flashcards
1
Q
What is a fire?
Abbot, 9th edition
A
Fire is a rapid combination of oxygen with carbon , hydrogen, and other elements of organic material in a reaction that produces flame, heat, and light. Photosynthesis reaction in reverse!
2
Q
The thermal degradation of wood involves the process of PYROLYSIS.
What is Pyrolysis?
Abbot, 9th edition
A
During the process of pyrolysis the chemical structure of solid wood breaks apart and yields flammable hydrocarbon vapors along with water vapor, tar, and mineral residues. If oxygen is present when the temperature is raised, the pyrolysed gases can ignite and combustion begins.
