What term describes the chemical decomposition of materials due to heat in a fire?

• A. Oxidation
• B. Endothermic
• C. Exothermic
• D. Combustion

Answer: (C)

The term associated with the chemical decomposition of materials due to heat in a fire is combustion. Combustion refers specifically to the process in which a substance reacts with oxygen and releases energy in the form of heat and light. During combustion, materials undergo a transformation that can involve the breaking down of chemical bonds as a result of the high temperatures present in a fire.

In the context of fire, this transformation results in the production of new chemical substances, including gases and ash. The heat generated from the process also indicates that energy is released, which is characteristic of combustion phenomena. Understanding this process is crucial in fire safety and prevention, especially in mining environments where materials may be exposed to hazardous conditions.

Other terms mentioned do not accurately describe this specific process. For example, oxidation is a broader term that refers to the reaction with oxygen, which can occur without fire or combustion. Both endothermic and exothermic reactions describe the heat exchange during chemical reactions but do not specifically identify the complete process of chemical decomposition and transformation that occurs during combustion.