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How does fire work?
Quick answer
Fire is the result of combustion — a fast chemical reaction where a fuel combines with oxygen and releases heat and light. It needs three things at once: fuel, oxygen, and enough heat to start. Remove any one, and the fire goes out.
Step by step
- Fire is a rapid chemical reaction called combustion.
- It needs fuel, oxygen, and heat — the 'fire triangle'.
- The reaction releases heat and light.
- Removing fuel, oxygen, or heat extinguishes it.
People also ask
How does fire work?
Fuel reacts rapidly with oxygen when heated enough, releasing heat and light in a reaction called combustion.
What is the fire triangle?
The three things fire needs: fuel, oxygen, and heat. Remove any one and the fire dies.
Why does water put out fire?
It cools the fuel below its ignition temperature and blocks oxygen, breaking the fire triangle.
Part of the guide: Everyday Science: Light, Heat & Matter →