What is the temperature at which a flammable liquid will ignite without any external ignition source?

The concept of auto-ignition temperature is vital in understanding how and when flammable liquids can ignite. This temperature is defined as the minimum temperature at which a substance will ignite without an external ignition source, such as a flame or spark. At this temperature, the thermal energy of the substance is sufficiently high that it can initiate its own combustion process.

The term "ignition temperature" can often be mistakenly used interchangeably with "auto-ignition temperature," but in a precise definition, ignition temperature generally refers to the temperature needed for a substance to ignite in the presence of an external source.

On the other hand, the flash point refers to the lowest temperature at which a liquid can form an ignitable mixture in air, requiring an external ignition source to start combustion. The term "combustion point" is less commonly used in technical contexts, making it less relevant in this discussion.

Understanding the differences between these terms is crucial for identifying the properties of flammable materials and ensuring proper safety measures when working with them. The auto-ignition temperature is particularly important in fire safety and risk assessment since it dictates the conditions under which a fire can start spontaneously.