The Science of Wildfires

The video explores the chemistry of fire, highlighting its ecological roles and the fire triangle's components: heat, oxygen, and fuel. It discusses the benefits of fire in ecosystems, such as promoting plant growth and forest renewal. Human activities are identified as major causes of wildfires, with strategies like prescribed burning and water use discussed for fire management. The video also examines the increasing severity of wildfires due to climate change, emphasizing the need for understanding and managing these natural phenomena.

What happens to wood when it is heated to about 150 degrees Celsius?

• It melts into a liquid.

• It releases volatile gases.

• It turns into ash immediately.

• It becomes a solid block.

Which of the following is NOT a component of the fire triangle?

• Heat

• Water

• Fuel

• Oxygen

How do light fuels like grasses and leaves behave in a fire?

• They extinguish the fire.

• They burn slowly and steadily.

• They dry out and burn quickly.

• They do not catch fire easily.

What role does fire play in grassland ecosystems?

• It prevents any plant growth.

• It only benefits non-native plants.

• It destroys all plant life.

• It promotes the growth of herbs and grasses.

According to the US National Park Service, what percentage of wildfires are caused by human activities?

• 100%

• 10%

• 90%

• 50%

What is one method used by firefighters to control wildfires?

• Using explosives to create barriers.

• Prescribed burning to remove fuel.

• Planting more trees.

• Increasing oxygen supply.

How does climate change affect the frequency and severity of wildfires?

• It makes wildfires easier to control.

• It increases temperatures and droughts, leading to more severe fires.

• It decreases the number of wildfires.

• It has no impact.