Fire & Combustion: Questions Answered

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between temperature, heat, and specific heat capacity in determining the amount of heat needed for ignition in different substances. It also explores the possibility of calculating the heat produced during combustion and the speed of heat production and absorption. Further research and studies are being conducted in this area.
  • #1
Igor_
1
0
I've read a bit about fire on wiki and I have some questions.
1. There is an exact ignition temperature for each material. Temperature reflects the amount of energy, heat. But also specific heat capacity of a each substance is different. So is the amount of heat, which is necessary for of ignition, the same for different substances? If different, why is that so? Can we calculate this amount of heat with formula?
2. If we have a certain amount of fuel we can calculate the amount of heat, which will be produced during combustion. This heat will be produced not immediately, but gradually. So there is a "speed" with which heat is produced. Can we calculate it?
3. If there is the speed of heat production, there might be also the speed of heat absorption. Can we calculate it))?

Thank you very much in advance!
 
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  • #2
Hello Igor, :welcome:

1) temperature is the better quantity to consider: heat has a tendency to diffuse away with a rate depending on conductivity (among others).
2) tough one too. but yes, there is a lot of research going on into things like flame propagation speeds. (which google...)
3) again, conductivity (among others) determines how swiftly heat is transported away from wherever it enters. google "heat transfer"
 

1. What is combustion?

Combustion is a chemical reaction between a fuel and an oxidizing agent (typically oxygen) that results in the release of heat and light. This reaction breaks down the fuel into simpler molecules, producing energy in the process.

2. How does fire start?

Fire requires three things to start: fuel, heat, and oxygen. When these three elements are present in the right proportions, a fire can ignite. The heat breaks down the fuel molecules, releasing flammable gases that mix with oxygen in the air and ignite.

3. What are the different types of combustion?

The three types of combustion are rapid combustion, spontaneous combustion, and explosion. Rapid combustion is a fast, self-sustaining reaction that produces heat and light. Spontaneous combustion occurs when a material self-heats and catches fire without an external heat source. Explosion is a rapid and violent release of energy.

4. What factors affect the rate of combustion?

The rate of combustion can be influenced by several factors, including the availability of oxygen, the surface area of the fuel, the temperature, and the presence of a catalyst. The type and amount of fuel and the surrounding environment can also play a role in the rate of combustion.

5. Can fire be controlled or manipulated?

Yes, fire can be controlled or manipulated through various methods such as adjusting the fuel-to-oxygen ratio, using fire-retardant materials, or using fire extinguishers. Fire behavior and intensity can also be influenced by factors such as wind and temperature. However, it is important to note that fire can be unpredictable and dangerous, so proper precautions should always be taken when attempting to control or manipulate it.

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