Fire Dynamics Definitions

Question 1

Define Pyrolysis

Answer 1

pyrolysis is the decomposition of a substance through the application of heat.

Question 2

Define Combustion

Answer 2

Combustion is a chemical reaction that occurs between a fuel & oxidising agent (oxygen) that produces energy, usually in the form of heat and light/glow.

Question 3

What is Endothermic reaction

Answer 3

Endothermic - absorbs energy (usually in the form of heat) from its surroundings, hence making the surroundings cooler. For example, ice melting.

Question 4

What is Exothermic reaction

Answer 4

Exothermic - when heat is given off as a result of a reaction.

Question 5

What is Vapour Density?

What is the Vapour Density of Air?

Answer 5

Vapour density is the weight of pure vapour or gas, relative to the weight of an equal volume of dry air at the same temperature and pressure

Vapour density of air = 1

Question 6

What is Vapour Density?

What is the Vapour Density of Air?

Answer 6

Vapour density is the weight of pure vapour or gas, relative to the weight of an equal volume of dry air at the same temperature and pressure

Vapour density of air = 1

Question 7

What is Specific Gravity?

Answer 7

The weight of a solid or liquid material, compared with the weight of an equal volume of water at the same temperature and pressure.
If the specific gravity (SG) is greater than 1, the material will sink in water.
Alternatively, if the SG is less than 1, the material will float in water

Note: Specific gravity of water = 1