View Full Version : Fire on Earth


orange
07-27-03, 09:35 PM
http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/image/0011/fires_mccolgan_big.jpg

Credit: John McColgan (AFS, BLM)

Explanation: Sometimes, regions of planet Earth can be seen lit up with fire. Since fire is the rapid acquisition of oxygen, and since oxygen is a key indicator of life, fire on any planet would be an indicator of life on that planet. Most of the Earth's land has been scorched by fire at some time in the past. Although causing many a tragedy, fire is considered part of a natural ecosystem cycle. The year 2000 fire season in the continental United States has been one of the most active on record, burning an area similar in size to New Jersey. Large forest fires on Earth are usually caused by lightning and can be visible from orbit. Above, stunned Elk avoid a fire sweeping through Montana's Bitterroot Valley by standing in a river.

Source here (http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/ap001121.html).

Clockwood
07-27-03, 10:46 PM
Just a little question: I know fire is rapid oxidation but what is rapid chlorination or the like? Can you have "fire" based on elements other than oxygen?

Gifted
07-28-03, 12:17 PM
Just a little question: I know fire is rapid oxidation but what is rapid chlorination or the like? Can you have "fire" based on elements other than oxygen? I believe it's called a single replacement reaction. It's been a few years since high school chemistry. But yes, you can. Can't think of any examples right now.