Certified Fire Investigator Practice Exam

Which of the following defines a "Spark"?

1. A static electrical discharge

2. A moving particle that emits radiant heat

3. A flame that causes combustion

4. A solid object that ignites materials

The correct answer is: A moving particle that emits radiant heat

A "spark" is accurately defined as a moving particle that emits radiant heat. This description captures the essence of how sparks function in fire dynamics. When certain materials are subjected to sufficient energy, they can emit small particles of burning material or light—these are the sparks. Sparks can ignite combustible materials upon contact due to their high temperature and the radiant heat they produce. In contrast, the other options do not align with the standard definition of a spark. A static electrical discharge does refer to a brief electrical discharge, like lightning or static electricity, but it does not represent the physical, moving nature of a spark. Flames associated with combustion produce light and heat but are not comprised of "moving particles" in the same context as sparks. Lastly, a solid object that ignites materials does not encapsulate the characteristics of a spark, which typically involves particulate matter that is transient and ignitable due to its heat emission. Therefore, the understanding of a spark as a moving, heated particle aligns with fire investigation principles, emphasizing its role in ignition and fire development.