Can You Set the Air on Fire?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around the concept of igniting "the air," referencing a statement made in the television series "The Walking Dead." Participants clarify that while oxygen itself does not ignite, it can support combustion when mixed with flammable vapors, as seen in fuel/air bombs. The oxidation of nitrogen at high temperatures is also mentioned, indicating the complex chemistry involved in combustion processes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of combustion chemistry
  • Knowledge of fuel/air mixtures
  • Familiarity with oxidation processes
  • Awareness of the principles of thermodynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the chemistry of combustion and oxidation reactions
  • Study the mechanics of fuel/air bombs and their applications
  • Explore the role of nitrogen in high-temperature reactions
  • Learn about safety protocols related to flammable materials
USEFUL FOR

Students of chemistry, safety engineers, and individuals interested in combustion science will benefit from this discussion.

Semtex
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Can you set "the air" on fire?

I remember watching the walking dead, the last episode of series 1 and the scientist said that he could set the air on fire?

Does oxygen go on fire at a certain level? Or was that all just made up for the show?

Thanks.
 
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If you get it hot enough, the nitrogen will oxidize.

But when people make a statement like this they are really talking about something like a fuel/air bomb, where you fill the air with a flammable vapor and light it off.
 


Pkruse said:
If you get it hot enough, the nitrogen will oxidize.

But when people make a statement like this they are really talking about something like a fuel/air bomb, where you fill the air with a flammable vapor and light it off.

Ah ok thanks :)
 

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