Definition: A (usually self-sustaining) chemical reaction involving the bonding of oxygen with carbon or other fuel, with the production of heat and the presence of flame or smouldering.

Alright class, settle down, let’s take a look! Today we're tackling “fires,” a word that pops up in many places, it’s true. The dictionary gives us a pretty detailed view, so let's break it down with some rhymes for you: “A chemical reaction, burning bright, With oxygen joining, a wondrous sight.” See, a fire isn’t just a pretty glow, it’s actually a process – a very active one! It’s all about how things combine. Let's unpack that definition a bit: “Usually self-sustaining” : This means the fire keeps going on its own, like a little engine turning round and around. It doesn’t need us to constantly add fuel – it feeds itself! "Chemical reaction" : That’s the core of what's happening. Atoms are rearranging themselves, bonding together in new ways. “Bonding of oxygen with carbon or other fuels” : Think about wood, paper, gas… those are fuels . Oxygen is what makes it burn . They combine – that’s where the energy comes from! “Production of heat” : Hot, hot, hot! That's a key part - the energy released during this reaction. "Presence of flame or smouldering” : This is what we see – the bright flames and sometimes the less obvious, smoky glow of embers. Essentially, a fire is a rapid release of energy as something burns! It’s a fascinating example of chemistry in action. Do you have any questions about this process? Perhaps you'd like to discuss different types of fires - wood fires, chemical fires... Let's chat!