Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) Practice Test

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What are the two basic components essential for the chemistry of fire?

  1. Fuel and Combustion

  2. Oxygen and Chemical Reaction

  3. Oxidizer and Fuel

  4. Flame and Heat

The correct answer is: Oxidizer and Fuel

The correct answer identifies the two fundamental components necessary for fire: oxidizer and fuel. Fire occurs as a chemical reaction between these two elements. The oxidizer, usually oxygen in the air, combines with the fuel, which can be any combustible material like wood, paper, or gasoline. This process is known as combustion, which generates heat and light, resulting in a flame. Understanding this relationship is critical in fire science and safety because it highlights the essentials for fire to occur. By knowing that both an oxidizer and a fuel are required, fire prevention strategies can focus on removing one of these elements to extinguish a fire. For example, eliminating fuel sources or limiting oxygen supply can effectively stop combustion processes and prevent fires from occurring or spreading.