Originally posted by NateTG
In zero-g environments flames look different.
Yep. http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2000/ast12may_1.htm
Thats more of "An equal and opposite reaction" Newton, flames burning, and the currents of air, that influence there shape, is more of a Chemistry > 'mixing' probelm/solution, with physics in the heat exchanges and molecular/atomic (subatomic, but I don't think/know if that's been explored) activities that arise as a result of all of the event(s) sequencing...sorta...Originally posted by Mattius_
Neat! So that means that when a spaceship is taking off, and the jets are facing down, you get more thrust because the hot air is rebounding back to the jets?
Not really - the thrust is so high and the speed of the rocket so fast that convection has a minimal effect.Originally posted by Mattius_
Neat! So that means that when a spaceship is taking off, and the jets are facing down, you get more thrust because the hot air is rebounding back to the jets?
Fire moves upwards due to convection, which is the transfer of heat through the movement of hot gases. When a fire is burning, the heat from the flames heats up the surrounding air, causing it to become less dense and rise. This creates an upward movement of air, which carries the flames and smoke with it.
A fire spreads upwards because of the availability of oxygen. As the hot air rises, it creates a vacuum effect that draws in more oxygen from the bottom, allowing the fire to continue burning and spreading upwards. Additionally, when materials above the fire are heated, they release gases that also contribute to the upward movement of the flames.
The shape of a room can affect the upward movement of a fire in several ways. A room with a high ceiling will allow the hot air to rise higher and spread out more, while a room with a low ceiling may cause the fire to spread more quickly across the ceiling. Additionally, the presence of walls or partitions can create a chimney effect, causing the fire to move more rapidly upwards.
The upward movement of a fire can be controlled or stopped by removing its source of fuel or oxygen. Firefighters use various tactics, such as spraying water or using fire-retardant materials, to extinguish fires and prevent them from spreading upwards. In some cases, creating a barrier or ventilation system can also help control the upward movement of a fire.
The phenomenon of upward movement in fires plays a crucial role in firefighting strategies. Firefighters must understand how fires move and spread upwards in order to effectively control and extinguish them. They use this knowledge to identify potential hazards, create evacuation plans, and determine the best tactics to contain and extinguish the fire.