What is the ignition temperature?

The ignition temperature refers to the specific heat level at which a combustible material can start to sustain combustion on its own. This concept is crucial in understanding fire behavior, as it indicates the threshold at which a material will not only catch fire but also continue to burn when subjected to an adequate supply of heat and oxygen.

When a material reaches its ignition temperature, it begins to undergo the chemical reactions necessary for combustion and can maintain this reaction independently. This differentiates it from the initial point of ignition, which might require an external heat source, such as a spark or flame. Recognizing ignition temperature is vital for fire prevention and containment strategies, as it helps in assessing the risks associated with different fuels under varying environmental conditions.