Combustion 15
Combustion 15 :
Consumption by oxidation, with the production of heat usually with incandescence or flame, or both. (BS 4422(1)). Combustion takes place between a combustible (combustible substance) or fuel and a supporter of combustion which is generally oxygen itself, but may also be a source of oxygen such as nitrous oxide, or an oxidising agent other than oxygen such as chlorine (in which, for example, copper foil will burn). In the majority of cases combustion occurs at high temperatures (greater than about 500°C), and its continuation depends on the maintenance of these temperatures. Combustion is self-supporting or otherwise, according as the heat evolved is or is not sufficient to maintain the necessary temperature. Combustion occurs either in gases as flame, or at the surface of solids as in glowing combustion. See also: Perfect Combustion
