How can fire spread from one place to another?

Fire can spread through conduction, convection, and radiation, which are fundamental methods of heat transfer.

Conduction occurs when heat is transferred through direct contact between materials. For example, a hot object can transfer heat to a cooler one when they touch. In the context of fire, combustible materials can ignite through conduction if they are in contact with hot surfaces.

Convection involves the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids, which could be air or other gases. In a fire scenario, hot air rises, creating currents that can carry heat to nearby combustible materials, potentially igniting them and allowing the fire to spread.

Radiation is the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves. This can occur when a fire emits heat that travels through the air to ignite nearby objects without direct contact. For instance, a burning object can radiate heat to flammable materials in close proximity, causing them to catch fire.

Hence, understanding these three methods of heat transfer is crucial for comprehending how fires can propagate and the necessary precautions that can be taken to prevent their spread.