What is the flashpoint of a liquid?

The flashpoint of a liquid is defined as the lowest temperature at which the liquid can vaporize to form an ignitable mixture with air. At this temperature, the vapor produced is sufficient to ignite in the presence of an ignition source, such as a spark or flame. This characteristic is crucial for safety and handling, as it helps determine the flammability and fire hazards associated with various liquids.

Understanding flashpoint is essential for fire protection practices, as it directly impacts how liquids are stored, transported, and utilized in any environment—military or civilian. Knowledge of flashpoints helps firefighters and safety personnel to assess risks and implement appropriate safety measures to prevent fire incidents.