Fire and Smoke: Understanding the Phenomenon

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In summary, burning materials such as CH4 can produce gaseous CO2 and H2O, while burning wood can release fine particulate matter or smoke into the air. Smoke is primarily made up of carbon particles and other chemicals from the burning process. The hot air from the fire carries these particles up through convection, but eventually they will fall to the ground or potentially seed raindrops in clouds.
  • #1
dimensionless
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I can why fire would give off gasses. In particular if one is burning CH4 there would be a lot of gaseous CO2 and H2O. Why, when I burn wood, does a fine particulate matter get kicked up into the air? Why does it not fall to the ground like ordinary solid matter? Is there a lot of frictional force between smoke particles and air, not unlike a feather?
 
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My guess would be that smoke (carbon particles) is being carried up by the hot air via convection.

~H
 
  • #3
Hoot has it pretty much. Smoke isn't just carbon particles, but that forms the majority of most wood or paper smoke. Pretty much any particulate matter that survives the burning process becomes smoke. You can tell, for instance, the difference between burning wood and burning steak by smelling it. That's a result of the various chemicals involved.
 
  • #4
and eventually the particles do fall to earth. (or maybe some particles end up in clouds seeding raindrops.)
 

1. Why does fire produce smoke?

Fires produce smoke because when a fire burns, it releases gases and particles into the air. These particles, called soot, are a byproduct of the burning process and are what make up smoke.

2. Is all smoke from fire harmful?

No, not all smoke from fire is harmful. The composition of smoke can vary depending on what is being burned. In some cases, smoke can contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to inhale, while in other cases, the smoke may only contain harmless particles.

3. Why does the color of smoke vary?

The color of smoke can vary depending on what is being burned. For example, a fire fueled by wood will produce a white or gray smoke, while a fire fueled by gasoline will produce a black smoke. The color is determined by the type of particles that are being released into the air.

4. How can smoke be dangerous?

Smoke can be dangerous for several reasons. First, it can contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to inhale. Second, it can reduce visibility, making it difficult to navigate or escape a fire. And third, smoke inhalation can cause respiratory problems and even death.

5. Can smoke from a fire be prevented?

In most cases, smoke from a fire cannot be completely prevented. However, proper ventilation and using clean-burning fuels can help reduce the amount of smoke produced. Additionally, making sure that fires are fully extinguished can prevent smoke from lingering in the air.

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