What is the flash point of a substance?

The flash point of a substance is defined as the lowest temperature at which its vapors can ignite when exposed to an ignition source, resulting in a brief flash of flame. This phenomenon occurs because at the flash point, the concentration of vapor in the air is sufficient to form a combustible mixture. The measurement of flash point is crucial for safety and handling purposes, especially in industries dealing with flammable materials.

This definition is significant because it helps in determining how a substance can be safely stored and handled, as materials with lower flash points pose greater fire hazards. The flash point is typically assessed using various testing methods, which can yield different results under specific conditions, further informing safety protocols.

Understanding this concept is essential for engineers and safety professionals as they design systems or protocols to manage the risk associated with flammable substances.