Fire is a rapid oxidation process, specifically combustion, that releases heat, light, and reaction products. Flames, the visible part of fire, appear when fuel reaches its ignition point. These flames, particularly from hydrocarbons, primarily consist of carbon dioxide, water vapor, oxygen, and nitrogen. Sufficiently hot gases within the flame may ionize into plasma. The characteristics of the flame, such as color and intensity, depend on the fuel type and the surrounding gas composition.
February 1915: First modern flamethrowers used in WWI
In February 1915, the first modern flamethrowers were used by German troops against entrenched French troops near Verdun during the First World War.
1938: Peak of fire lookout tower use
In 1938, the use of fire lookout towers, constructed for early wildfire detection, peaked.
July 1944: Napalm incendiary fluid used
In July 1944, the incendiary fluid napalm was used towards the end of the Second World War.
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