What is radiation in the context of fire behavior?

Radiation in the context of fire behavior refers to the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves, which can travel through space without the need for a medium. This mode of heat transfer is critical when discussing fires, as heat radiated from flames or hot surfaces can spread to nearby combustible materials, potentially igniting them even when there is no direct contact. Understanding radiation is essential for firefighting and fire prevention, as it helps to assess the risk of fire spreading through open spaces, where materials are not physically touching but can still be affected by the heat emanating from the fire. This concept distinguishes radiation from other forms of heat transfer, such as conduction, which requires direct contact, and convection, which involves the movement of fluids.