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What Is Fire?
Fire is the rapid oxidation of a fuel in an exothermic chemical process known as combustion, which releases heat, light, and various reaction products. The visible effect of this process-the flame-is produced when the fuel reaches its ignition point and combusts with oxygen in the air.

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The Fire Triangle
Three elements are essential for fire to occur, often referred to as the "fire triangle":

Fuel: Any combustible material (solid, liquid, or gas)

Oxygen: Usually from the air

Heat: Sufficient to reach the fuel’s ignition temperature

If any one of these elements is removed, the fire will extinguish.

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Chemical Process
During combustion:

The fuel is heated until it releases gases (if it’s not already a gas).

These gases react with oxygen, producing new molecules (mainly carbon dioxide and water vapor) and releasing energy as heat and light.

The process is self-sustaining as long as enough heat, fuel, and oxygen are present.

The basic combustion equation is:

fuel+oxygen→carbon dioxide+water+heat

Incomplete combustion can produce other byproducts, such as carbon monoxide.

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Characteristics of Flames
Flames are the most visible part of fire and consist of hot gases.

Their color and intensity depend on the type of fuel and the composition of surrounding gases.

At high temperatures, gases may become ionized, forming plasma.

Flame temperatures vary: a candle burns at 800–1000°C, while oxy-acetylene flames can exceed 3000°C.

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Types of Fire
Fires are classified based on the type of fuel involved:

Class Fuel Type Examples Extinguishing Method
A Solid organic material Wood, paper, fabric Water
B Flammable liquids Gasoline, oil, alcohol Foam, powder, COâ‚‚
C Flammable gases Propane, methane, natural gas COâ‚‚, dry powder, cut supply

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Effects and Uses
Positive Effects:

Stimulates plant growth and maintains ecological balance

Used by humans for cooking, heating, signaling, propulsion, smelting, and waste disposal

Negative Effects:

Can cause destruction to life and property, atmospheric pollution, and water contamination

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Removal of vegetation by fire can lead to soil erosion and long-term reduction in soil fertility

Summary
Fire is a complex chemical reaction essential to both natural ecosystems and human civilization. It is both a tool and a hazard, requiring careful management and understanding of its underlying science.

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