A quick review of fire is in order. Fire is the rapid oxidation of matter. This reaction produces heat, light and different reaction products. There are three main types of fire: spontaneous, induced and accidental. Fire is a destructive force that can destroy a home, building, or other structure. But, it can also be a good thing! In this article, we’ll explore both types. Let’s dive into combustion and heat first.
Combustion
A large amount of heat and light is released when a substance undergoes combustion. This is also known as rapid combustion and is a common process in the manufacture of thermobaric weapons, internal combustion engines, and explosives. The combustion process also has other names, such as explosion combustion, self-igniting, and thermal runaway. Solid fuels such as wood, charcoal, and wheat are examples of combustible materials. They have been used by humans for many centuries, and the process has been studied in the laboratory as well as in nature.
Heat
Heat caused by fire is energy released from the combustion of a combustible material or fuel. This chemical reaction turns the fuel and oxygen into carbon dioxide and water. The combustion process releases energy from the fuel and oxygen atoms through their vibrations. This kinetic energy is transferred to the thermoreceptors, which detect heat. The heat energy is then released as light. Moreover, the flames are the product of this chemical reaction.
Convection
You’ve likely experienced the feeling of warmth on your face and hands while standing near a campfire. This is due to convection during fire. This process transfers heat from the burning wood to the unburned wood inside the log. It does this by evaporating moisture and breaking down fibres into gases. This process makes the air in the room hot and is often one of the most dangerous aspects of fire. In an attempt to stop the spread of fire, people should keep the fire’s source as close as possible to the source of heat.
Conduction
The conduction of heat is one of the three main methods of spreading fire. Heat is transferred from one object to another by contacting its molecules. Some materials absorb this heat better than others, and the resulting thermal energy can ignite combustible materials nearby. The second method of spreading heat involves the movement of gaseous or liquid materials. As long as they are in contact with a surface, they will conduct heat and will be affected by fire.
Shock
Burn shock is an acute state caused by severe heat injury. The extent and depth of the burns determine the degree of shock. The greater the body surface area involved, the higher the risk of death. If inhalation was involved, the risk increases. The effects of burns cause hypovolemic and distributive shock, as well as cardiogenic shock. This condition also produces massive edema and capillary leakage syndrome. Further, burns can result in infections, which may lead to a host of medical complications, including sepsis.