Understanding Combustion: Types of Combustive Materials and Processes

Combustion is a chemical reaction between a fuel and an oxidizer that releases energy in the form of heat and light. The fuel can be a solid, liquid or gas, and the oxidizer is typically oxygen in the air. When the fuel and oxidizer are combined and ignited, they react to produce carbon dioxide, water vapor, and heat.

Examples of combustive materials include:

* Wood, which is a common fuel for fires and campfires
* Gasoline, which is used as a fuel for cars and other vehicles
* Natural gas, which is a fossil fuel that is commonly used for heating and cooking
* Propane, which is a liquid fuel that is often used for barbecues and other outdoor appliances
* Charcoal, which is made from burnt wood and can be used as a fuel for grills and other cooking devices.

Combustion can also occur in non-flammable materials, such as plastics and other synthetic materials, through a process called pyrolysis. In this process, the material is heated to high temperatures without being ignited, resulting in the release of volatile gases and liquids.